best ways to travel around new zealand

Your ultimate guide to getting around New Zealand

Aug 26, 2024 • 5 min read

From hiring a camper to getting around in Auckland, here are some top tips for travel in New Zealand. Justin Foulkes for Lonely Planet

Floating at the western end of the Pacific, New Zealand is long, narrow, relatively sparsely populated and split in two by the Cook Strait. Seeing the whole of New Zealand will involve crossing this waterway, but regular car ferries make it easy to road trip right around North Island and South Island in a rented car or campervan.

Most people arrive in either Auckland , Christchurch or Wellington – all well served by public transport – but once you leave the big cities, there are vast expanses of rolling countryside, tall mountains and areas of almost impenetrable native bush to navigate.

In many parts of the country, it can be a long way to the next town, and most New Zealanders tend to travel by car. Many visitors to the country do the same, although public transport also connects the main hubs, running less frequently to outlying towns, villages and tourist sites.

There's a vast amount to see and do in New Zealand – whether you want to explore the cities or escape into nature, here are some of the best ways to get around.

See more of New Zealand by driving around the country

New Zealand's stunning scenery makes for remarkable road trips and traveling by car is convenient and flexible, especially when visiting attractions away from main arterial routes. Many of the best-known national parks are remote, so you'll need a vehicle to properly explore them, though it's possible to visit many areas on organized tours or by hiking .

Driving around New Zealand is reasonably straightforward and traffic tends to be light outside of the major cities. You also don't have to worry about wildlife on the roads in quite the same way as you do in Australia . People drive on the left-hand side of the road and visitors are usually allowed to drive on their home driver’s license for up to a year.

Keep in mind that car rentals aren’t always cheap, and insurance costs can be expensive for drivers under 25. If you’re traveling between the islands, double-check whether your rental vehicle is allowed on the Interislander or Bluebridge ferries across the Cook Strait. You’ll need to book your vehicle on the ferry in advance to guarantee a spot.

When driving in more remote areas, there can be long stretches between gas stations, so be sure to fill up your vehicle before leaving any town on a long trip. Also, be aware that some roads are gravel or dirt, especially in rural areas, with windy and narrow stretches and tight squeezes over mountain passes. One-way bridges are incredibly common, particularly on the South Island; look out for signs indicating who has to give way to oncoming vehicles.

Distances in New Zealand can be deceptive as road travel is often slow. Getting caught behind a campervan or truck on a single-lane road can add hours to your journey. It’s not unusual to encounter road repair works and “slips” (the Kiwi word for landslides) caused by weather events such as 2023’s Cyclone Gabrielle. Check Waka Kotahi’s journey planner before you hit the road.

If you’re driving over any of the South Island’s mountain passes in winter, having snow chains isn’t just advisable, it’s mandatory in some areas, including along the road to Milford Sound . Road signs will indicate when you’re required to put them on, so make sure you know how to fit your chains properly. Car rental agencies offer chain rentals and can show you how to use them.

Travel by campervan for ultimate flexibility

Traveling by campervan or motorhome allows you to save money by eliminating or reducing accommodation costs, with campsites and holiday parks situated in some of the country’s most scenic spots, including inside New Zealand's national parks . Numerous companies specialize in camper van rentals for travelers, including big operators such as Britz and many smaller agencies.

However, if you plan on “freedom camping” – staying overnight in free designated parking areas – you’ll need a certified self-contained vehicle, which means you must have the ability to carry your own water and carry out your own waste. It's also important to remember that freedom camping doesn’t mean you can just park up and sleep anywhere.

The rules have recently changed and bylaws are set by local councils, so check camping.org.nz for advice on where to camp or download the CamperMate app .

Bus services connect New Zealand's cities and towns

Coaches provide good links between most large cities and towns in New Zealand. These can be booked in advance and are reasonably affordable, but you'll have to rely on less frequent local buses to reach many rural locations and national parks.

Although regional bus operators exist, InterCity is the national bus company – you can expect onboard WiFi and sometimes toilets (or regular toilet stops). InterCity also offers flexible bus passes, which include ferry passage on the Interislander ferry. Discounted bus tickets are often available in the off-season.

There are also hop-on, hop-off buses and shuttles that cater to tourists and backpackers, but these tend to be significantly more expensive and the party vibe on some buses won't appeal to everyone; Kiwi Experience is the best-known operator.

Scenic train trips let you enjoy the landscape as you travel

Trains in New Zealand generally focus on moving freight and ferry commuters around within cities, but there are a few scenic regional trains for tourists that are worth considering, not least for the rewarding views along the way.

Great Journeys New Zealand operates three scenic routes with handy stops along the way. The Northern Explorer runs from Auckland to Wellington, the Coastal Pacific connects Picton to Christchurch and the TranzAlpine runs from Christchurch to Greymouth through Arthur’s Pass.

It's also worth investigating the tourist trains that depart from Dunedin’s historic railway station , though they’re usually used for day trips rather than getting from A to B.

Domestic flights are the quickest way to travel between cities

While many visitors choose to travel overland in New Zealand, taking a plane will get you to other parts of the country in a shorter time frame, but with a greater impact on the environment. Flying between North Island and South Island is a popular option for travelers short on time, and some camper rental companies offer one-way rentals (for a higher price), so you can drive one way and fly back (or leave New Zealand from a different airport).

Air New Zealand is the national airline and it serves 20 destinations nationwide; smaller local airlines serve remote airstrips in locations such as the Chatham Islands and Rakiura/Stewart Island. Keep in mind that domestic flights are prone to cancellations and delays due to the country’s highly changeable weather, with a risk of high winds, snow and fog in some locations.

Tip for taking domestic flights: Consider low-cost carrier Jetstar if you’re flying to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin or Queenstown. Otherwise, check Grabaseat.co.nz for deals on Air New Zealand flights.

Accessible transportation in New Zealand

New Zealand's sights and national parks are reasonably accessible, with ramps, enhanced displays and paths suitable for the mobility impaired in many locations. And most public transport in New Zealand is accessible to everyone. This includes buses and trains, which are typically equipped with ramps, handrails and low steps.

The New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) runs the Total Mobility Scheme , a resource for finding discounted accessible transportation in different regions of New Zealand, including public transport and taxis. Many car rental companies offer accessible vehicles, but for specialist accessible rentals contact Disability Vehicle Rentals and Freedom Mobility .

Mobility parking permits can also be arranged for international visitors. They take 10 working days to process, so it’s best to apply for one before you depart. The Department of Conservation has a search engine that lets you find accessible trails.

Transport passes

If you’re spending some time in New Zealand's major cities and plan to use public transport, it’s worth buying a prepaid transport card for whichever hub you're exploring. These give discounted fares that have a capped daily maximum charge and they can be used across various transport services – for example, in Auckland, you can travel by bus, train or ferry and you’ll never pay more than NZ$50 in total over a seven-day period.

Useful card schemes include Auckland’s AT HOP card, Wellington’s Snapper card and Christchurch’s Metrocard . If you’re visiting Otago, you can use the Bee card throughout the region, including in Queenstown and Dunedin.

This article was first published Jul 1, 2021 and updated Aug 26, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Aug 27, 2024 • 5 min read

Pick the perfect time for your visit to New Zealand with this seasonal guide.

Aug 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 24, 2024 • 10 min read

Aug 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 22, 2024 • 8 min read

Aug 21, 2024 • 6 min read

Aug 21, 2024 • 4 min read

Aug 16, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Aug 1, 2024 • 11 min read

• Destinations
• Travel Guides

• Getting around New Zealand

Roxanne de Bruyn

New Zealand

New Zealand is a long, narrow and relatively sparsely-populated country. Outside the cities, there are large expanses of rolling countryside, tall mountains and thick native bush. In some regions, it can be a long way to the next town.

As a result, most New Zealanders tend to travel by car. Many visitors to the country do the same, although there are also some national public transport options available. Regardless of whether you want to explore the cities or escape into nature, here are some of the best ways to get around New Zealand.

New Zealand by car

New Zealand's stunning scenery makes for remarkable road trips and traveling by car is convenient and flexible, especially visiting attractions away from main arterial routes. One of the most enjoyable parts of traveling in New Zealand is exploring the national parks and seemingly isolated spots – in fact, many of the best-known sites are quite remote.

Driving around New Zealand is reasonably straightforward and traffic is relatively light outside of the major cities. People drive on the left-hand side of the road and visitors are usually allowed to drive on their home driver’s license for up to a year.

Keep in mind that car rentals aren’t always cheap, and insurance can be expensive for drivers under 25. If you’re traveling between the islands, also check whether your rental car is allowed on the Interislander ferry (which connects the North and the South Islands) – book your vehicle on the ferry in advance.

In more remote areas, there can be long stretches between gas stations, so be sure to fill up the car when leaving a town. Also, be aware that some roads are gravel or dirt, especially in rural places.

If driving through mountainous areas in winter, also remember to rent tyre chains, or a four-wheel drive, as there can be ice and snow on the roads.

In summer you still need to be well rested to tackle the windy narrow roads and tight mountain passes. Longer days mean more time to travel, but be aware distances are deceptive - single-lane roads mean that being caught behind a slow-moving campervan can add hours to your drive.

Hiring a campervan in New Zealand

Renting a campervan and driving around the country is one of the most popular ways to see New Zealand. Traveling by campervan gives you the flexibility of having your own transport while allowing you to save money on expensive accommodation costs.

There are a number of campervan rental companies in New Zealand and it’s possible to get a full-sized campervan or a smaller van, which is cheaper but not as comfortable. Just keep in mind that "freedom camping," or setting up camp outside of designated campgrounds, isn’t always legal – if in doubt, check the Department of Conservation website for some guidelines about where free camping is allowed.

Train routes in New Zealand

Trains in New Zealand are generally focused on freight and local travel within some of the cities, but there are a couple of scenic regional trains which are aimed at travellers.

The major route in the North Island is the Northern Explorer which goes from Auckland to Wellington, stopping in Hamilton, Tongariro National Park and Palmerston North. There is also the option to travel by train from Wellington to Palmerston North.

In the South Island, there are two scenic train options. The Coastal Pacific route follows the coast from Picton (where the Interislander ferry arrives from Wellington) to Christchurch and back again.

The other option is perhaps the most beautiful train journey in the country. The Tranzalpine Train runs between Christchurch and Greymouth on the West Coast, passing through stunning alpine scenery.

Bus travel in New Zealand

City-to-city buses provide good links between cities and towns in New Zealand. These can be booked in advance and are reasonably affordable, however, local buses will need to be taken to rural locations or national parks.

Intercity is the best known of the national bus companies and their buses include wi-fi and sometimes toilets. Intercity buses also offer flexible passes which include ferry passes on the Interislander ferry. Discounted bus tickets are often available in the off-season.

There are also hop-on, hop-off buses that cater to tourists and backpackers, however, these are significantly more expensive. Within cities and towns, buses are a popular form of transport, particularly in the major centres including Auckland , Wellington and Christchurch.

Travelling by plane in New Zealand

While many visitors choose to travel overland in New Zealand, opting for a plane can be a good option if you want to get to specific destinations within a short timeframe. Air New Zealand is the national airline and goes to 25 different destinations around the country.

Jetstar, a low-cost carrier, is another option, but it doesn't fly to all airports around New Zealand. If you book in advance, Air New Zealand’s special airfares are comparable with Jetstar’s pricing.

Transport passes in Auckland and Wellington

If you’re spending some time in Auckland or Wellington and planning to use public transport, it’s worth buying an Auckland Transport HOP or a Snapper card when you arrive in the city. HOP cards can be used on bus, train and ferry services in Auckland and give a 20% discount on fares (excluding the SkyDrive bus from the airport and the ferry to Waiheke Island). Snapper cards can be used on Metrolink buses and trains in Wellington and give a 25% discount on the usual fare.

Both cards are prepaid and provide an integrated fare. This means that you can transfer between Auckland Transport or Metrolink buses, trains and ferries (in Auckland) and pay just one fare across the zones you’re travelling.

Accessible transportation in New Zealand

Most public transport in New Zealand is accessible for people of all abilities including buses and trains, which typically provide wheelchair ramps, handrails and low steps.

Accessible vehicles are also available across the country with many car rental companies offering a wide range of vehicles and three rental companies who specialize in accessible rental – Disability Rentals, Mobility Vehicle Rental and Freedom Mobility. Mobility parking permits can also be arranged for international visitors if organized at the beginning of the trip.

The New Zealand Transport Authority also runs the Total Mobility Scheme , a resource for finding discounted accessible transportation in different regions of New Zealand, including public transport and taxis.

This article was first published by Lonely Planet .

• Introduction
• Transport passes
• Accessible transportation

Share this article

Author - Roxanne de Bruyn

Roxanne is the founder and editor of Faraway Worlds. She is a freelance writer and guidebook author and has written for several travel publications, including Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor and The Culture Trip. With a background in communications, she has studied ancient history, comparative religion and international development, and has a particular interest in sustainable tourism.

Originally from South Africa, Roxanne has travelled widely and loves learning the stories of the places she visits. She enjoys cooking, dance and yoga, and usually travels with her husband and young son. She is based in New Zealand.

Last Updated 23 March 2023

New Zealand Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 14, 2024

New Zealand’s name inspires pictures of mountains, glaciers, forests, pristine lands, and lots and lots of sheep. And the country is the adventure capital of the world. Hiking, skydiving, caving, bungy jumping, skiing — everything here is geared towards getting you outside and doing something incredible.

Backpacking through New Zealand is one of the most popular activities in the world, with thousands of people making their way there on their round-the-world trip (backpackers sweep up those working holiday visas!).

Whether you’re a backpacker, budget traveler, or want to splurge a bit more, New Zealand won’t let you down. I’ve loved all my visits to New Zealand. The people are friendly, the country is beyond beautiful, the wine is cheap, the people are friendly, and you meet a lot of travelers. It’s one of the best countries in the world. I’ve never heard anyone not love their time in the country. You will leave here wanting to come back.

And, fortunately, as the land of backpackers, budget travel in New Zealand is easy to do if you know a few tips and tricks on how to save money. It won’t be dirt cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either.

Use this New Zealand travel guide to plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this incredible destination.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on New Zealand

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in new zealand.

1. Explore Fiordland

Fiordland National Park , located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island, is home to Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound. You can walk the forest trail along the sandy Milford shore for perfect views of Mitre Peak, or take the Chasm Walk on the Cleddau River to get close to powerful waterfalls. The are also several multi-day hikes here, including the 4-5 day Milford Track, as well as all kinds of scenic flights and cruises. A wilderness cruise of Doubtful Sound costs 199 NZD.

2. Heli-hike Franz Josef Glacier

Heli-hiking this glacier is amazing. With a heli-hike, you take a scenic helicopter flight over the glacier and then land in remote areas where you can explore on foot. Although the 2-3 hour hike is grueling, many tour providers also throw in a complimentary soak in the Hot Pools at the end. Expect to pay around 485 NZD for a heli-hike. It’s not cheap, but I personally thought it was completely worth the cost. You can also just do a scenic flight with Glacier Helicopters for 360 NZD.

3. Relax in the Bay of Islands

North of Auckland, this area has some of the best opportunities for dolphin and whale watching, relaxing on the beach, swimming, boating, and eating seafood. The area is very low-key and is a popular summer and weekend getaway destination for Aucklanders. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, one of the most important historical sites in the country, is also located here. It’s where the British and Maori signed what is considered the founding document of modern New Zealand. Today, there are two interactive and interesting museums here as well as Maori cultural performances you can attend.

4. See the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Explore these incredible caves in sheer darkness with nothing but the glow of glowworms to guide your way. It’s an exciting activity as you float down rivers and jump over waterfalls and watch the “starry sky” in the cave. You can also tube and abseil (rappel) through the caves, too. Expect to pay around 55 NZD for the classic 45-minute cave tour and 265 for five-hour tours with abseiling. You can save money overall by purchasing combo tickets (if you want to visit multiple caves or do various tours), or by going on weekdays when you get 20% off.

5. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Labeled the best one-day hike in New Zealand, this epic trek near Taupo traverses Tongariro National Park, a World Heritage Site and New Zealand’s oldest national park. You walk through volcanic terrain (including where they filmed Mordor in Lord of the Rings ), near high peaks and sulfur lakes, before finishing off in a dense forest. The 19-kilometer (12-mile) walk takes a full day and is actually quite challenging. Expect to pay around 40 NZD per person for a shuttle to and from the trail.

Other Things to See and Do in New Zealand

1. try bungy jumping.

A.J. Hackett, a Kiwi, popularized the modern activity of bungy jumping when he (illegally) jumped off the Eiffel Tower in 1987. Today, bungy jumping is hugely popular around the world, but especially in its country of origin. Any adrenaline seeker worth their salt will do the 134-meter (440-foot) Nevis Bungy Jump outside of Queenstown. If that’s too high, there are smaller ones in Auckland and Queenstown. The price of adventure isn’t cheap, however, with a single jump at Nevis costing 275 NZD.

2. Go skydiving

Another popular adventure activity in New Zealand is skydiving. The best place for this is over Lake Taupo . It provides a stunning backdrop as you plunge to Earth from high above. Taupo Tandem Skydiving offers jumps from 12,000-18,000 feet starting at 279 NZD. You can also take a full-day course to learn how to skydive on your own for 499 NZD. Franz Josef and Lake Wanaka are also popular spots for skydiving as well.

3. Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Located on the South Island, this national park looks like something you’d find in Asia, with its turquoise blue water, dense jungles, and warm temperatures. There are many multi-day hiking trails and beautiful sea kayaking throughout the park. It’s also home to one of the 9 Great Walks of New Zealand, the 60-kilometer (37-mile) Abel Tasman Coastal Wal. Entry is free, though you need to pay 16-24 NZD for a campsite if you plan on staying overnight. Huts are also available for 26-52 NZD per night. Accommodation prices vary depending on the time of year. You can also take a scenic cruise around the park with Abel Tasman Sea Shuttles for 79 NZD.

4. Hang out in Wellington

I found New Zealand’s capital to be the most “artsy” city in New Zealand. There’s great architecture, character, fantastic nightlife, restaurants, and cultural activities. Tour the Beehive (where Parliament meets), ride the cable car for epic views over the city, visit the award-winning Wellington Museum and Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, or learn how to make movie-quality armor at Weta Workshop (the special effects studio behind Lord of the Rings , District 9 , Avatar , and many others). You can also leave the city for a wine tour of the Martinborough wine region (149 NZD). There are so many cultural activities to do here so don’t be like other travelers and rush through — it’s worth a few days!

5. Go dolphin and whale watching

Whether you go from the Bay of Islands, Auckland, or somewhere on the South Island, the country is within the migratory route for many of these creatures and you’re bound to see lots of them no matter when you go (though October-March is the best time). Sperm whales, orcas, and humpback whales all call the region home. Boat tours last around 4 hours and cost 135-160 NZD per person.

6. Hit the slopes

During the winter months, the South Island (especially the area around Queenstown and Wanaka) has snow-covered mountains that offer some of the best skiing in the southern hemisphere. Prices vary depending on where you go, how you get there, what equipment you rent, and how long you go for, but expect to pay around 105-140 NZD for a lift pass.

7. Unwind in Rotorua

Located on the North Island, Rotorua is famous for its Maori cultural shows and for its sulfur smell (which comes from the geothermal activity in the area). All around the city are sulfur mud pits that give the city a unique odor. But the upside is that there are a ton of thermal spas in the area to relax in! Also, don’t miss the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute which has all kinds of traditional Maori arts and crafts.

8. Get outdoors in Kaikoura

This is a coastal town several miles north of Christchurch . It is set on a peninsula, which makes it an awesome place to enjoy the mountain scenery while searching for whales and dolphins. Whale Watch Kaikoura is the best company to go whale-watching with here. They are a Maori-owned tour company that guarantees you see at least one whale on your trip (otherwise they refund you 80% of the cost). Additionally, there is an interesting museum, a handful of historical sights, and the Maori Leap limestone cave to see while you’re here.

9. Explore Wellington Botanic Gardens

Of all the beautiful gardens throughout the country, this is perhaps the most popular. There is a vast native forest, an international plant collection, a rose garden, and a landscaped area — complete with a duck pond, sculptures, a playground, and a cafe. Created in 1868, the park spans a massive 25 hectares (60 acres) and makes for a great place to stroll or relax with a book. Admission is free.

10. Ride the Christchurch gondola

If you are in Christchurch, take the gondola ride up Mount Vaendish. The ride is 10 minutes and offers the best views of the city. There is a restaurant at the top if you want to grab a bite to eat while you enjoy the scenery too. Most people walk back down (you can also walk up if you don’t mind the exercise; it takes around 45 minutes). Tickets are 35 NZD (round trip). Wellington and Queenstown also have gondolas for views over these cities as well.

11. Enjoy Queenstown

The action capital of the country, Queenstown is one of the most fun cities I’ve ever visited. There are a lot of outdoor activities and sports (bungy jumping is the most popular) to do in the area, amazing restaurants, and the best nightlife in New Zealand. Everyone who comes ends up staying longer than planned. Don’t skip Fergburger either — they have the best burgers in the country!

12. Watch a Maori cultural show

The Maori are the indigenous people who came to New Zealand from Polynesia in the 14th century. Getting to know Maori culture is important to understanding life in this country. Maori make up about 16% of the country’s population and you’ll see Maori symbols and words throughout the country as you travel. See a Maori cultural show while you are here to get a better understanding of their culture and history. The most popular shows are in Rotorua and cost 150-245 NZD per person (most are 3-4 hours and include a meal).

13. Explore Milford Sound

Milford Sound is such an amazing fjord it deserves its own mention. Located in Fiordland, Milford Sound is best known for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest environments. Waterfalls like Stirling Falls and Bowen Falls cascade down the mountainsides, and the fjord itself is home to seal and penguin colonies. You can often see pods of dolphins frolicking in the waters too. Explore by boat, and check out the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see rare black coral and other underwater life. Cruises start from 59 NZD.

14. Visit Wanaka

Wanaka is a ski and summer resort town on New Zealand’s South Island, set on Wanaka Lake and framed by snowcapped mountains. From here you can explore the Southern Alps’ Mount Aspiring National Park, with its many glaciers, beech forests, and alpine lakes. Wanaka Lake itself is perfect for boating enthusiasts, including jet boaters, sailors, and kayakers. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, you’ll want to check out the Treble Cone and Cardrona ski resorts nearby. For some quirky fun, go to Puzzling World just outside town. It’s an outdoor maze and sculpture gallery that’s good for a laugh!

15. Travel to Hobbiton

Journey to Middle Earth with a visit to the Hobbiton movie set featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. This is easily one of New Zealand’s most famous activities, so you can expect crowds. To see Hobbiton, you’ll have to take a tour. It starts with a drive through the owner’s 505-hectare (1,250-acre) sheep farm with some epic views over the Kaimai Ranges. From here, you can explore Bag End, wander around the hobbit holes, and visit the Green Dragon Inn. If you’re a LOTR fan, you can’t pass this up. Tours start at 89 NZD.

16. Visit Stewart Island

Stewart Island is located 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of the South Island. Over 85% of the island is National Park (Rakiura National Park to be exact), and most people come here for hiking and birdwatching. The island has just 28 kilometers (17 miles) of road, but 280 kilometers (175 miles) of walking tracks suited to short walks, day hikes, and multi-day excursions. Walk the three-day Rakiura Track for the full experience of Stewart Island’s natural beauty. Offshore, on Ulva Island, you’ll find a predator-free bird sanctuary with dozens of native species. Getting to Stewart Island means you’ll need to take a ferry or flight. Ferries take one hour and cost 89 NZD while flights from Invercargill take 15 minutes and cost 230 NZD return.

17. Relax on a scenic rail journey

New Zealand’s challenging landscapes demanded some remarkable feats of early railway engineers. While their rail network isn’t vast, thanks to their skill and determination, there are some incredible rail journeys on offer. Travel through remote national parks, along beautiful coastlines, and over rugged volcanic landscapes. The routes are the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine. I took the TransAlpine and loved every minute of it. You pass rivers, mountains, cross gorges, and vibrant green farmland. It was the highlight of my trip to New Zealand and one of the most peaceful experiences I had. I can’t recommend it enough. Tickets vary between 169-219 NZD (one-way) depending on the route and how far you go.

18. Take one of the Great Walks

New Zealand has thousands of miles of hiking trails but sitting above them all are the ten Great Walks that journey through the country’s most magnificent places and iconic locations. On the North Island, the Lake Waikaremoana Track takes 3-4 days, leading you through prehistoric rainforests and beautiful wildlife areas. The famous Tongariro Northern Circuit is a challenging 3-4 day excursion where you’ll see active volcanoes, emerald lakes, and epic waterfalls. The South Island has its own unique routes, as well, including the Milford Track, which winds its way through the fjords of Milford Sound. Keep in mind that due to their popularity, Great Walks must be booked in advance (and they can sometimes fill up months ahead of time).

19. Explore wine country

New Zealand’s wine regions extend 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) from sub-tropical Northland down to Central Otago, home to the world’s most southerly vineyards. Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, Marlborough, and Central Otago are signature New Zealand wine regions and home to a number of different vineyards. Smaller wine-producing areas include Auckland, Gisborne, and Waipara. If you’re keen on seeing the best of what Kiwi vineyards have to offer, check out the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail — a wine-tasting adventure through the heart of New Zealand’s grape-growing regions. If you don’t have your own vehicle, there are plenty of bus (and even bicycle) tours available. Half-day small group wine tours generally cost 120-170 NZD, while full-day tours start at 200 NZD.

20. Visit Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is home to some of the highest mountains and the longest glaciers. Here you’ll find sky-scraping peaks, sweeping glaciers, and permanent snowfields. Although it encompasses 23 peaks over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) high, this park is very accessible. State Highway 80 leads to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, which is situated beside the scenic Lake Pukaki. Far from city lights, the stargazing here is magnificent — Aoraki Mount Cook National Park forms the majority of New Zealand’s only International Dark Sky Reserve. Mountaineers regard the area to be the best climbing region in Australasia, while less skilled adventurers will find plenty of enjoyable hikes with stunning views of the area. Admission is free.

For more information on specific cities in New Zealand, check out these guides:

• Auckland Travel Guide
• Bay of Islands Travel Guide
• Christchurch Travel Guide
• Franz Josef Travel Guide
• Nelson Travel Guide
• Queenstown Travel Guide
• Rotorua Travel Guide
• Taupo Travel Guide
• Waitomo Travel Guide
• Wanaka Travel Guide
• Wellington Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in New Zealand

New Zealand is a safe place to backpack and travel around. Violent crime and petty theft are both incredibly rare here. That said, it never hurts to always keep your valuables safe and secure just in case. Don’t leave valuables in your car or van overnight as break ins sometimes do happen.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here but there aren’t many in New Zealand though. People here are generally friendly and nice. In all my years traveling here, I’ve never felt unsafe.

If you’re doing any hiking or other adventure sports, always check the weather in advance and bring water and sunscreen.

As earthquakes and tsunamis do occur in New Zealand, consider downloading the Hazard App from the Red Cross. It has all kinds of advice and tips for natural disasters and also sends out warnings and notifications should a disaster occur.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 111 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in New Zealand

The hostel scene in the country has vastly improved since I first came here in 2010. There’s much more variety and higher quality now. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Haka Lodge (Auckland)
• Waiheke Backpackers Hostel (Auckland)
• Nomads (Queenstown)
• Haka Lodge (Queenstown)
• Kiwi Paka (Waitomo)
• Urbanz (Christchurch)
• Trek Global (Wellington)
• Mountain View Backpackers (Wanaka)

For more hostel suggestions, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in New Zealand !

New Zealand Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – 40-60 NZD per night
• Hostel private rooms – 90-150 NZD per night
• Budget hotels – 175 NZD per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 85 NZD per night
• Airbnb apartments – 120-170 NZD per night
• Campsite – 22 NZD per night
• Cheap eats (sandwiches, pizza) – 15-25 NZD
• Casual take-out places – 30 NZD
• Sit-down restaurants – 50-85 NZD
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 15 NZD
• Beer – 10 NZD
• Glass of wine – 9-15 NZD
• Cappuccino/latte- 5-6 NZD
• Bottled water – 2 NZD
• Groceries for a week – 120-170 NZD

New Zealand Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 125 nzd per day.

On this budget, you will be staying in hostel dorms, eating cheap food and cooking most of your meals, traveling by bus, and doing two or three big activities (like bungy jumping or the glow worm caves).

Midrange – 275 NZD Per Day

This midrange budget gets you a private hostel or Airbnb room, more restaurant meals, a couple drinks, a car to get around, some more adventure activities, and, overall, just a bit more wiggle room so you don’t need to pinch pennies.

Upscale – 400 NZD Per Day

This “luxury” budget gets you a hotel, any activities you want, wine tours, delicious meals out, and the best the country has to offer. You can also rent a camper van or take a scenic train journey.

New Zealand Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Costs in New Zealand can skyrocket quickly if you aren’t careful. Eating out here is expensive and all those adventure activities can really add up. In New Zealand, you have to pick and choose your battles. That said there’s a ton of ways to save here and it’s very easy to travel here on a budget without impacting your experience. Here are ways you can save money in New Zealand:

• Learn to cook – I know this is going to sound crazy but: the food scene in New Zealand isn’t that mind-blowing. Yes, there are nice cafes, some hip gastronomy, and really delicious meals but nothing blew my mind. There’s good food but there’s not great food. At least not great enough when you are trying to save money. If you want to really save, cook your own food. When it comes to buying groceries, the cheaper supermarkets are Pakn’Save or Countdown.
• Choose wisely – Tours cost a lot of money in New Zealand. A few of these are enough to bust any budget and send you home before you had planned. Pick the ones you really want to do and save the rest for another trip.
• Hit happy hour – The backpacker bars have cheap happy hours. Hit them up and drink for cheap.
• WWOOF it – WWOOFing is a great way to work for your accommodation and food. In return for working on a farm or B&B, you get free room and board. It’s a popular activity with travelers because it lets you stay in a place cheaper and longer. You can do it for a few days or a few months. Keep in mind that most farms require you to have some experience, as too many inexperienced workers have caused trouble in the past.
• Get a temporary job – If you’re running low on money and still have plenty of time left in New Zealand, check Backpackerboard.co.nz for temporary paying gigs.
• Clean in exchange for your room – Many hostels let you trade a few hours of cleaning and making beds for free accommodation. Ask when you check in if this is possible — it might just save you some money!
• Ride share – Ride shares are a popular transportation option for travelers looking to lower costs — all you need to do is chip in for gas. You can find rides on websites like Craigslist and CarpoolWorld. Additionally, you’ll see people asking for rides on hostel bulletin boards.
• Transport vehicles – Campervan and car relocation services will provide you with a free vehicle and gas if you drive it from one destination to another for them. This can be a great way to save a lot of money if you’re flexible with timing. Check Transfercar.co.nz to see what’s available.
• Stay with a local – While there are not a ton of Couchsurfing options available in the country, there are hosts in all of the major cities. If you don’t mind sleeping on a couch or floor, this is a great way to save some money and meet locals who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Hitchhike – Hitchhiking is easy in New Zealand and it’s one of the main ways to get around. There are plenty of people who will pick you up. Additionally, you can just ask around at any hostel and find a ride. Everyone is doing the same circuit. I got from Wanaka to Queenstown to Fiordland that way. Check out HitchWiki for tips.
• Take a free walking tour – There are a few free walking tours in New Zealand, such as Auckland Free Walking Tour  in Auckland, that offer visitors insights into each city. If you want to get beneath the surface of New Zealand then walking tours are a great place to start. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Get a campervan – Campervans litter New Zealand, especially on the nature-heavy South Island where people hike and camp because they serve as accommodation and transportation all wrapped up in one. For budget-conscious travelers, that’s a win. Be sure to download the awesome Campermates app, which lets you find nearby campsites, gas stations, and dump stations.
• Find cheap activities – The bookme.co.nz website provides last-minute discounts on activities (and pub crawls) throughout the country. Most of the activities are last minute, but if you’re flexible in when you want to do things, you can save up to 60% off attractions! I can’t recommend it enough.
• Skip the backpacker buses – While fun, buses like the Kiwi Experience, Stray, or Haka are expensive so it’s best to avoid them if you are on a tight budget. If your budget isn’t so tight and you do want to check them out, be sure to sign up for their mailing lists. There is always a sale on them.
• Enjoy nature – Remember that nature is free! New Zealand, home to the great walks of the world, has tons of free outdoor activities. While the adventure sports, wine tours, glacier treks, and boat cruises can eat into your budget, there are plenty of free hiking trails and walks to keep you busy!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water in New Zealand is safe to drink so bring a water bottle with you to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can always be sure your water is clean and safe!

How to Get Around in New Zealand

Public transportation – Most towns and cities in New Zealand have buses, and Auckland and Wellington both have rail services. One-way fares start around 2-3 NZD and increase depending on what zone you’re traveling to (most cities and towns in New Zealand are sprawling). Check to see if there are transit cards available. For example, Wellington has a Snapper card which will save you nearly half your fare, and the same goes for Auckland’s AT HOP card.

Backpacker bus – One of the most popular ways travelers get across New Zealand is by backpacker bus. These buses offer a hop-on/hop-off service that allows travelers both the flexibility to go at their own pace and the convenience of having activities and accommodation organized for them. New Zealand has two major hop-on/hop-off buses:

• The Kiwi Experience
• Stray Travel

Kiwi Experience tours range from 2-28 days and prices vary greatly depending on the pass you get. Prices are a lot higher during peak tourism season in December through February as well. The most basic passes start at 255 NZD for a four-day trip.

Trains – New Zealand has three train lines: Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine. These are scenic train rides complete with viewing platforms, audio commentary, information packets, and big windows for taking photos. However, they’re not the most convenient for getting around as they have quite limited schedules. They are meant to be scenic rides than transportation. Tickets range from 199-219 NZD depending on the route.

Buses – Buses are the best and cheapest way to get around New Zealand. Buses stop in every town, and there are frequent departures from even the smallest cities. Visit InterCity for fares and routes.

Fares are typically 25-45 NZD. The earlier you book in advance, the cheaper your ticket will be. Avoid last-minute bookings if possible.

Flying – Flying in New Zealand isn’t that cheap, as there are only two companies that dominate the entire market: Air New Zealand and Jetstar — and on most routes, it’s just Air New Zealand. While you can find some cheap fares on shorter routes or by booking a few months in advance, unless you are really pressed for time or traveling from island to island, I’d skip flying.

Auckland to Christchurch when booked in advance is 95-125 NZD, and when booked last minute it’s around 200 NZD. Wellington to Auckland is around the same, with prices between 100-150 NZD when booked in advance.

Campervans and Car Rentals – This is a popular way to travel in New Zealand, especially on the nature-heavy South Island, where people hike and camp. There are five main rental agencies:

• Travellers Autobarn
• Wicked Campers

Daily rates change depending on where you pick the vehicle up, if you are dropping it off at a different place, how long you are renting it for, how far in advance you book, and when you book. (Going during the high season? Prices seem to double!). Check out this post for more information and price comparisons .

To compare car rental prices, use Discover Cars . You can get a free quote using this widget:

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking is easy in New Zealand, and it’s one of the main ways to get around. There are plenty of people who will pick you up. Additionally, you can just ask around any hostel for a ride — everyone is doing the same circuit. Check out Carpool New Zealand for rides and HitchWiki for tips.

When to Go to New Zealand

New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, meaning when most North Americans are dealing with snow and freezing temperatures, Kiwis are enjoying their beaches. Overall, the climate here is temperate. Summer is from December-February and is the most popular time to visit. Kiwis also take their holidays during this time, so things get busy! Days are long and sunny, nights are mild. The average daytime temperature is 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Fall is from March-May and it’s one of the best times to visit. The crowds have dispersed, prices are lower, and the weather is pleasant. Some areas still have very warm temperatures, like Auckland.

Winter is from June-August, and it’s a great time to visit if you’re into snow sports. Queenstown and the Central Plateau are winter playgrounds during this time, but especially in June and July! Temperatures on the South Island can drop as low as 0°C (30°F).

Spring (September-November) is also a nice time to visit, especially on the South Island. In short, there’s really no bad time to visit, depending on the sort of things you’d like to do.

That said, since New Zealand is so expensive, the shoulder season is one of the best times to visit if you’re on a budget.

New Zealand Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• EatWith – This website allows you to eat home cooked meal with locals. Locals post listings for dinner parties and specialty meals that you can sign up for. There is a fee (everyone sets their own price) but this is a great way to do something different, pick a local’s brain, and make a new friend.
• bookme.co.nz – You’ll get some really good last minute deals and discounts on this website! Just select what area you’re traveling in, and see what activities are on sale.
• treatme.co.nz – The locals use this website to find discount hotels, restaurants, and tours. You can save up to 50% off things like catamaran sailing lessons or three-course dinners.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

New Zealand Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on New Zealand travel and continue planning your trip:

The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

The Cost of Traveling New Zealand

How to Get Around New Zealand on a Budget

13 Great Reasons to Visit New Zealand

Where to Stay in Christchurch: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 7 Best Hostels in New Zealand

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The BEST New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary in 2024

• Last Updated: April 10, 2024

Read on for an epic New Zealand road trip itinerary for a bucket list journey of a lifetime!

New Zealand is spectacular. At times it seems as though there is picture-postcard scenery at every turn.

For many travellers, a New Zealand road trip is pretty close to the top of their travel bucket list.

Whether you’re hiring a campervan or car, exploring New Zealand with your own set of wheels is the best way to experience this rather stunning area of our planet. 

The North Island and the South Island both offer incredible scenery and attractions for a New Zealand road trip.

Whether you plan to explore one or both islands, we’re going to dive into the top things to see and do in New Zealand for an epic road trip.

Table of Contents

Where to Start Your New Zealand Road Trip

Driving in new zealand , hiring or buying a vehicle, responsible travel in new zealand, how long is this new zealand road trip , bay of islands and the northland, coromandel peninsula , mount maunganui and rotorua , lake taupo and the tongariro national park , waitomo and the forgotten world highway ,  mount taranaki to wellington , ferry crossing from wellington to picton, picton to the abel tasman national park , abel tasman national park to kaikoura, kaikoura to the west coast via the arthurs pass national park , hokitika to haast , haast to wanaka, wanaka to queenstown, queenstown to milford sound or doubtful sound, the sounds to the catlins national park , catlins national park to the otago peninsula , otago peninsula to mount cook national park, mount cook to akaroa, akaroa to christchurch , planning your new zealand road trip.

Before you can get started on your New Zealand road trip we want to walk you through a few decisions you’ll need to make.

We’ll discuss transport and safety on the roads, as well as responsible travel. We want to provide you with a little information that will make your road trip safer and more enjoyable.

Then we’ll talk about the highlights of both the North Island and the South Island of New Zealand so you can plan your road trip itinerary!

Most people will fly into Auckland on the North Island and make their way south, or fly into Christchurch on the South Island and make their way north or further south for their New Zealand itinerary.

For this New Zealand road trip itinerary, we’re going to start in Auckland and finish up in Christchurch .

However, any New Zealand road trip itineraries can also be done in reverse. The Christchurch to Auckland route can sometimes result in cheaper rental fees due to it being less popular than Auckland to Christchurch.

Before embarking on a New Zealand road trip it’s worth doing some research to get to know the road system a little better.

First, in New Zealand, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. This is not a great surprise as it was formerly part of the British Empire.

Second, you should expect the roads to be narrow and very windy. Driving in New Zealand is not like driving on the open highways of the USA or Australia.

Expect journeys to take much longer than they would in your home country. 

Roads are in excellent condition and people in New Zealand are generally very courteous drivers.

However, during peak travel seasons don’t be surprised if you find yourself behind a huge 6 berth camper van at some point. 

Road conditions are a super important thing to consider when planning a road trip anywhere, but especially on a New Zealand itinerary!

This really depends on how long your New Zealand itinerary will be. If you’re buying a vehicle you will need to add time to the beginning and end of your road trip.

Generally, if your New Zealand itinerary is 6 weeks or less it’s not really going to be cost or time effective to buy a vehicle.

If you have longer than that, however, buying may be the best option.

So get the calculator out and start the number crunching. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

“Freedom camping” is limited to certain locations and self-contained vehicles.

If you’re self-contained, this means that you can go for three days or more without dumping waste or water, have a toilet, fresh and wastewater storage and a rubbish bin with a lid. 

There are clear signs where you can and cannot freedom camp and what the vehicle requirements are.

Sadly there are a small number of people that continue to spoil it for everyone by freedom camping where they shouldn’t.

Or they freedom camp in vehicles which are not self-contained or they leave their rubbish for someone else to clear up.

Please don’t be one of these people. 

New Zealand road trip itineraries can last as long or short as you want. We want to share some awesome road-tripping ideas from across the country that can be pieced together as you see fit.

We also have a New Zealand itinerary post that takes you through 1, 2 and 3-week itineraries. You may find this useful in planning how much time to spend in which destinations throughout. Check it out !  

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads .

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary – North Island

You’ll begin this New Zealand road trip itinerary on the North Island in Auckland. From here we’ll take you the length of both islands.

Click here for a Google Map of the North Island road trip itinerary

Spend your first couple of days getting over the jet lag and exploring New Zealand’s largest city. Check out the Sky Tower as well as the Auckland Museum and Art Gallery.  

Take a day to get out of the city and explore the city’s beaches and hiking routes before picking up the keys to your vehicle and heading out onto the open road. 

READ MORE: How to travel Auckland like a local !

From Auckland head north to the Bay of Islands. The towns of Paihia and Russell are big draws here.

However, en route make sure you visit the spectacular Tutukaka Coast .

This stunning stretch of coastline is rarely visited and with numerous deserted beaches and awesome views, it offers something very different from Paihia and Russell. 

From the Bay of Islands, you can continue heading north towards Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach.

This off-the-beaten-track area of New Zealand is particularly breathtaking. However, it is noticeably economically depressed in parts.

The vast majority of people lack the time to make it this far as it’s another day’s drive from the Bay of Islands.

If you have the time it’s well worth it, but if your time is limited then you may wish to spend it elsewhere.

From the Bay of Islands, double back on yourself and loop around Auckland before arriving at the base of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Many people will skip this and head on to Taupo or Rotorua.

However, doing this will mean you will miss out on one of New Zealand’s most incredible yet secret destinations. 

One of the highlights of this part of New Zealand is quiet coastal roads that at points hug the ocean’s edge. As you begin to circle around the end of the peninsula you head up into the hills offering some lovely views. 

There is some stunning coastal scenery dotted along the peninsula. Cathedral Cove and the hot water beach to the south of it are particularly lovely spots on the eastern side of the peninsula.  

As you leave the Coromandel Peninsula head towards to small coastal town of Mount Maunganui to check out its gorgeous beach and the stunning views from the top of Mount Maunganui itself. 

After some time in the town of Mount Maunganui head over to New Zealand’s geothermal capital Rotorua.

On the way check out Te Rerekawau and Mclaren Falls , two excellent spots for a break from driving. 

You also have to visit Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland on your trip to New Zealand. As part of the Okataina Volcanic Centre, Wai O Tapu has the coolest geothermal views and landscapes.

From Rotorua hop on the Thermal Explorer Highway and head down towards Lake Taupo and the central region of New Zealand’s North Island 

READ MORE: Be sure to consider these things to do in Rotorua !

After following the Thermal Explorer Highway from Rotorua you will arrive at Lake Taupo, the North Island’s adventure capital.

Every New Zealand road trip must include a stop in Taupo. Its central location allows you to branch out to other areas of the North Island without having to double back on yourself.

After getting your fill of adrenaline activities in Taupo head towards the stunning Tongariro National Park along the south edge of the lake.

Expect stunning views, especially if you’re travelling around sunset. 

The Tongariro National Park is stunning and is home to numerous excellent hikes.

Make sure you base yourself around Whakapapa where there are several accommodation options including an excellent holiday park for those travelling in a campervan.

Whakapapa is the starting point for many hikes and is very close to Mangatepopo car park , the starting point for the Tongariro Crossing , regarded as one of the best one-day walks in the world

Check out our New Zealand itinerary and our article on the top 25 things to do in New Zealand for some additional suggestions on things to do in both Taupo and the Tongariro National Park. 

For this section of the New Zealand itinerary, there is a bit of doubling back on yourself. However, I promise it’s worth it. 

From the Tongariro National Park head north towards the tiny town of Waitomo just a stone’s throw from the town of Te Kuiti , which prides itself as being the sheep shearing capital of the world. 

Spend your time in Waitomo deep underground exploring the area’s caves , with the Lost World being the pick of the bunch. 

From Waitomo double back on yourself and head to the town Taumarunui and hop on the spectacular and rarely visited Forgotten World Highway .

Running through some gorgeous New Zealand countryside the highway ends in the town of Stratford , very close to Mount Taranaki.

With its almost perfect cone, Mount Taranaki reminds many of the more well-known Mount Fuji. The area is home to some spectacular hikes. 

From Mount Taranaki head towards the east coast and follow it all the way down New Zealand’s wet and windy capital, Wellington .

There are numerous tiny beach towns to stop at on the way, with windswept Hitamangi being a decent place to spend the night. 

If you’ve skipped the sections from Tongariro to Taranaki, then an alternative route is the rather lovely road that follows the Mangawhero and Whanganui Rivers all the way to the coast offering some spectacular scenery en route. 

Spend your time in Wellington at the Te Papa Museum to learn about New Zealand’s history.

Head up to Mount Victoria for some lovely views over the city. And spend at least one evening eating and drinking on Cuba Street .

READ MORE: Check out these other great things to do in Wellington !

New Zealand South Island Road Trip

New Zealand South Island road trips are more common and, honestly, more adventurous than those on the North Island.

But clearly, if you’re visiting New Zealand you should plan to see both the North and South Islands. If you’re short on time, however, and you can only visit one island, the South Island has more dramatic scenery and adventure activities.

Click here to check out a Google Map of the South Island road trip itinerary .

Park up on the ferry and get ready to enjoy some spectacular views as you come toward Picton through the Marlborough Sounds on your crossing to the South Island of New Zealand.

This is, of course, weather-dependent. I’ve done this crossing twice, once in the winter and once in the summer.

The former was a crossing of wind and rain and not much else. Check out this map of the South Island to provide some frame of reference for your trip and add to your itinerary beyond our recommendations below.

This section of our New Zealand South Island road trip is littered with some awesome stop-off points.

There are plenty of hikes and places to explore on the edge of the Marlborough Sounds as you follow the coast around reaching the small city of Nelson.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied here for a few days. 

Beyond Nelson, it’s a straight shot to Kaiteriteri , a town on the very edge of the Abel Tasman National Park.

There is plenty of great hiking through the park. But you should also consider kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park .

READ MORE: Be sure to add these things to do in Nelson while you’re there.

This area of New Zealand always leads to difficult decisions. Head straight to the West Coast via Murchison and the Buller Gorge, cut across the South Island via Hammer Springs, or loop back around via the Marlborough Wine Region. Decisions decisions. 

Since we’re planning to head to Kaikoura, we’re going to look at the latter two options (don’t worry we will get to the west coast I promise). 

If you’re a fan of wine and coastal scenery then head to Kaikoura via the Marlborough Wine Region stopping in at various vineyards along the way.

The alternative is to head for Hammer Springs via the Buller Gorge. Spend a night in Hammer Springs soaking in hot pools or just enjoying the scenery, then hot foot it down to Kaikoura. 

Kaikoura is one of the wildlife capitals of New Zealand. The vast majority of this can be found in the waters surrounding the peninsula which is home to a staggering array of wildlife.

Whether you want to watch whales and albatross, swim with dolphins, or kayak with seals it’s up to you. 

From Kaikoura head south and back to the West Coast via the stunning Arthurs Pass National Park .

Although this route does involve some extra kilometres on the road, I promise you it’s absolutely worth it. 

This gorgeous National Park is rarely visited in comparison to others in New Zealand. There are numerous hikes available as well as plenty of places to simply pull up and enjoy the scenery. 

The Jackson Retreat Alpine Holiday Park is a great option for those who want to spend a night in the area.

As well as spectacular views over the national park itself, the park also has its own glow worm trail and hike to a lovely waterfall. 

Coming via Arthurs Pass will spit you back onto the west coast just north of Hokitika , a town famous for its gorge and beaches.

If you want to can double back north along the west coast road toward Punakaiki and Westport before doubling back on yourself and heading back down towards Hokitika. 

From Hokitika, it’s a straight shot south down the wild west coast to the small town of Haast . On your way, you will pass through glacier country.

Around both the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers numerous short hikes offer some pretty amazing views. 

The views on the entire journey down are pretty spectacular, no doubt you’ll be stopping plenty of times to take photos. 

From Haast, you have 2 options. Follow the Haast Pass through to the beautiful Wanaka.

Or head due south to Jackson Bay , the end of the line on the west coast.

The latter of these offers empty roads and stunning desolate beaches. With small mountains jutting out of the land a couple of hundred metres from the ocean’s edge, the view when taking a dip is stunning.

If you head down to Jackson Bay then double for Haast and then take cross the Haast Pass through to Wanaka. 

The journey through the Haast Pass is full of stunning scenery, short hikes, and some gorgeous waterfalls with the blue pools being particularly beautiful.

Make sure you have a good pair of walking boots as Wanaka is full of awesome hiking trails offering some breathtaking views. 

Many people also choose to go hiking in Mount Aspiring National Park on the way to Wanaka.

READ MORE: Check out more activities in Wanaka .

Make sure your camera is charged because this drive is a beauty.

Taking you past the stunning Crown Range and The Remarkables as you enter Queenstown this journey is truly special. 

I’d also recommend heading up to the tiny town of Arrowtown which is in between Wanaka and Queenstown.

From Queenstown take a day trip up to the stunning little town of Glenorchy . This drive is also an absolute stunner. 

READ MORE: Be sure to add these great Queenstown activities to your itinerary!

No doubt about it, the drive from Queenstown to Te Anau is an absolute stunner.

From here the road splits; north to Milford Sound and South to Doubtful Sound.

From Te Anau to Milford Sound is probably more spectacular than the route down to the edges of Lake Manapouri from where Doubtful Sound cruises depart. 

Milford Sound is one of the most popular destinations in the country and is a must on a road trip of New Zealand’s South Island. Many people visit Milford Sound as a day trip from Queenstown.

But if you’re driving your own car on a road trip, you have the luxury of visiting Milford Sound on your own time and spending some time there. Then you can continue on after seeing the famous Milford Sound.

However, of the sounds, it is Doubtful Sound that I feel is the more spectacular of the two.

At 3 times the length and 10 times the area of its more well-known cousin, it is simply awe-inspiring. 

This gorgeous but rarely visited national park is bypassed by the main SH1 highway, enjoying a calm and carefree life far away from the majority of travellers that flock to New Zealand’s shores.

Winding country roads, breathtaking coastal scenery, and oodles of hiking trails are just the start of this part of your road trip.

Head down Curio Bay and Porpoise Bay to experience some of the park’s most famous residents – the curious Hectors Dolphins that are sometimes keen to come to socialise with swimmers. 

From the Catlins head to the gorgeous Otago Peninsula . This is another wildlife haven with albatross viewing and seal kayaking on offer.

At night head over to the Royal Albatross Centre to watch the Little Blue Penguins returning to their nests after a day hunting out in the open ocean. 

The eastern portions of the peninsula are home to some gorgeous beaches and equally stunning hiking trails which are well worth checking out. 

READ MORE: Plan to do some great hiking on the Otago Peninsula .

This gorgeous drive follows the coast up through the town of Omaru through Twizel and onto one of New Zealand’s most stunning sights – Mount Cook .

As you follow the coast up from the Otago Peninsula make sure you stop in at Omaru to check out the town’s funky steampunk vibe.

If you stay the night there is an additional Little Blue Penguin colony that you can observe in the evening.

From Omaru journey inland towards the small town of Twizel . This is a gateway to Mount Cook National Park, with many using it as a stopping point to maximise the enjoyment of the drive to New Zealand’s highest peak.

This is because the drive along Lake Pukaki , towards Mount Cook is simply breathtaking, and maybe one of the most stunning drives in the country.

Therefore it makes sense to do it first thing in the morning when you have the best light and the fewest people.

The road up to Mount Cook is littered with stunning viewpoints. However, Peter’s lookout is probably the pick of the bunch. 

If you’re in a campervan make sure you head for the Whitehorse campsite . This awesome DOC site is the starting point for the Hooker Valley Trail and the Kea Point Track . 

Also, make sure you check out the hikes around the Tasman Glacier as well. 

This long but stunning drive takes you along the banks of Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo. Lake Tekapo is one of New Zealand’s most gorgeous lakes.

Next you’ll head through the heart of Canterbury, and onto the Banks Peninsula , which is one of the most picturesque places in New Zealand. 

Along the south edge of Lake Pukaki stop in at the Alpine Salmon Shop to chow down on some excellent sashimi.

Make sure you check out the Church of the Good Shepherd on the banks of Lake Tekapo.

There are some rather lovely hikes in the area, plus some awesome stargazing to be had from the Mount John Observatory . 

There are a fair few quaint towns that you may want to stop in en route. The small town of Fairlie is famous for its bakery which serves some truly spectacular pies and close proximity to the Mount Dobson ski field.

The small town of Lake Tekapo is also a lovely place to stop. There are lots of hikes and a Dark Sky Reserve where you can stargaze.

If you’re here in the winter then Mount Hutt is another worthy skiing spot. However, you will definitely need snow chains on your tires. 

Bypass Christchurch and make a beeline for the small town of Akaroa , the main town on the stunning Banks Peninsula.

Spend a few days exploring the many hiking trails that crisscross the peninsula.

Head over to Okains Bay to explore and relax on this stunning and often deserted beach. 

If you fancy getting up close to some of the area’s wildlife there are some excellent dolphin swimming and watching tours .

Christchurch is the final stop on this NZ road trip. A short drive from Akaroa, it certainly makes a pleasant change 

Christchurch is well known for its botanical gardens and cathedral. The latter is still being held up with a mixture of structural support and scaffolding after the 2011 earthquake.

It’s still fenced off, acting as a timely reminder of New Zealand’s precarious position at the hands of Mother Nature. 

READ MORE: Check out some of the best things to do in Christchurch !

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Whanganui Journey in New Zealand – The Ultimate Guide [2024]

The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand’s South Island in Winter

5 Best Adventure Activities In Taranaki, New Zealand

Related Posts

21 amazing things to do in auckland, new zealand [2024], the ultimate guide to hiking in new zealand (2024), the most epic 1, 2 or 3 week new zealand itinerary (2024), wanaka homestead review – a home away from home, 2 thoughts on “the best new zealand road trip itinerary in 2024”.

Do you have any info on hotels , B&B’s to stay at in New Zealand, north and South Island?

Hi Marion, that is awesome you are travelling to NZ. Best to hop online and check out the reviews for places and see which one suits your budget and location. All the best and have a great trip.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A Complete 4 to 8 Weeks Self Drive Travel Itinerary around New Zealand

November 15, 2021

Table of Contents

Due to its ever-growing popularity amongst mountain and photography lovers, New Zealand is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the World, scoring the top marks for best countries to travel and live in, in many online rankings.

After spending more than one year in New Zealand on a working holiday visa I can only agree with what is being said. Its scenery is certainly hard to beat and being relatively compact it makes for a perfect self-driving holiday destination.

Originally this was a 4 week itinerary, but after a lot of feedback and many of you asking how to extend it, I have decided to redesign it a bit and give it a much-needed update to what it is today. 

Who is this New Zealand road trip itinerary perfect for?

If you came to New Zealand for at least 4 or more weeks or you are here on a Working Holiday Visa, you can definitely take advantage of the time you’ve got and explore both the North and South Islands.

You won’t be able to see everything. I didn’t even manage to do that during the 15 months I spent here, but I used my extensive knowledge about this country and handpicked the best locations which you could visit on your road trip.

What’s the best way to travel around New Zealand long-term?

Motorhome rental

Personally, I think renting a motorhome is the best option if you are road-tripping New Zealand for an extensive amount of time.

You can also consider buying one, but you will need to give yourself enough time before and after your trip to purchase and then sell your van. 

For the best deals on campervans check the Motorhome Republic . It will save you a lot of time using their search engine. You can save quotes, look at the layouts and full specifications and compare prices and package inclusions. 

Make sure to check out my article about  everything you need to know regarding motorhome travel in New Zealand  which touches on topics such as freedom camping or what it means to have a self-contained campervan. 

Compact car rental

If you are not into camping and seek a bit more luxury you can go for a regular rental car and stay in hostels or hotels. I recommend  Discover Cars  for finding the best deals on compact car rentals.

Do bear in mind though, that New Zealand gets really busy in the summer season and it might be a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance. 

New Zealand 6-week travel itinerary part 1: North Island

This itinerary splits into two parts: 16 days on the North Island and 26 days on the South Island totaling 42 days or 6 weeks across New Zealand. Before I start I want to say that this road trip plan can easily be shortened to 4 weeks or extended to 8 weeks to fit your needs.

To extend it simply add days when visiting some destinations as there is enough to explore in each area! Do you want to shorten it? I have included a section at the end of this post with some ideas on how it can be done.

Day 1-2: Arrive in Auckland

Whilst  Auckland does have some interesting vantage points for taking photos , I wouldn’t recommend spending here longer than a day, especially if you are on a tight schedule.

Remember that you came to New Zealand to see its spectacular nature. For someone like me, coming from Europe, I found the cities in New Zealand rather dull, especially when put against its amazing landscapes! 

Starting your road trip in Auckland has another advantage. The car rental deals will be the best and the city is very well connected with the attractions I have enlisted in this itinerary. 

You can also start this itinerary in Christchurch and follow it backward. Consider this option, particularly when traveling during the autumn season. 

Day 2-5: Northland

• Distance from: Auckland to Cape Reinga: 420 km / 260 miles / 5,5 hours
• Distance from : Cape Reinga to Paihia: 213 km / 132 miles / 2h 45 min

Your first few days on this itinerary will take you up to the northernmost tip of the country:  Cape Reinga . Drive from Auckland all the way up to the top of the Peninsula where, according to the local Maori culture, the spirits of the dead enter the underworld.

It is also  the separation point between the Tasman Sea to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east . Whilst standing by the lighthouse located at the tip of the Cape you can clearly see the two types of water clashing, creating a tidal race.

I recommend hiking the  Te Werahi beach Track  when visiting Cape Reinga. It’s one of  my favorite hikes on the North Island! 

Spend the first and second nights in Northland at the  Tapotupotu campsite  near Cape Reinga – it’s one of my favorites in New Zealand!

Bear in mind that there are no towns around Cape Reinga. The nearest – Kaitaia is located 1,5 hour’s drive away, so make sure to stock up on enough food and bring enough cash for the next couple of days. 

You can spend the third night around Paihia, where you will find plenty of campsites to choose from. 

What to See and Where to Stay in Northland

90 mile beach.

If you’ve got a 4-wheel drive rental vehicle and feel comfortable doing so you can do part of the journey to Cape Reinga driving on a 90-mile beach. Just make sure to check the tide first, because the last thing you want to do is be washed away by waves. Trust me I have seen it happen to others! 

TIP: Your rental agreement may also have a clause that won’t allow you to take your vehicle off-road so make sure to inform yourself before you go there.

Te Paki Sand Dunes

Just 20 minutes South of Cape Reinga lie the famous  Te Paki sand dunes . Rent a board for a few dollars in one of the shops along the way and spend some time hiking up the sand dunes and sliding down on your board. 

At the end of the day, you will have sand in places where sand definitely doesn’t belong, but I guarantee you, it’s going the be a load of fun!

Rarawa White Sand Beach 

Rarawa Beach is a little bit of a hidden beach. Located about an hour South of Cape Reinga, this place will transport you into a World of perfect white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Only the water temperature will remind you that you are in fact in New Zealand and not some island in the Caribbean.  

After visiting Cape Reinga continue down to  Paihia – the gateway to the Bay of Islands . Even though they are only 3 hours apart, if you stopped in all the places which I have recommended along the way, it might take you the whole day to get here. 

Once you reach Paihia you can book a trip to the outer islands right off the coast, arrange a sea kayak tour or take part in a cruise to the  ‘hole in the rock’  located at the tip of Cape Brett. If you are lucky you may even be able to spot some dolphins.

Day 5-7: Coromandel

• Distance and driving time from Paihia to Hahei: 400 km / 250 miles / 5,5 hours 

The Coromandel Peninsula is one of the most beloved places on the North Island among tourists visiting New Zealand. There are two spots in particular, which have given this place international fame. 

If you are looking at spending a couple of days exploring the Coromandel Peninsula then Hahei is a great little town for a base. 

What Not To Miss Around Coromandel

Cathedral cove.

The number one and most photogenic spot in this part of the country is Cathedral Cove. This place gets really busy so to maximize your experience hike to the Cove early in the morning.

It takes around 90 minutes to complete the whole walk, not including the time you will spend exploring.

Hot Water Beach

This natural phenomenon was only discovered recently, but it is certainly a very popular spot amongst tourists and can get very busy.

What’s the big deal you may wonder? Because of New Zealand’s geothermal activity, hot water beach is one of the few places in New Zealand, where you can dig out your own hot spring and sit in it enjoying the views of the sea.

Make sure to check the tides first. It’s only possible to dig at low tide. Once the tide comes in it washes everything away. You can rent shovels at nearby cafes for just a few bucks. Best few dollars you will ever spend! 

Day 7-8: Hobbiton, Mount Maunganui & White Island

• Distance from Hahei to Matamata:  148 km / 92 miles / 2 hours   
• Distance from Matamata to Mount Maunganui: 57 km / 35 miles / 45 minutes 

Mount Maunganui is a small part of Tauranga – a coastal city located on the Bay of Plenty, but before you get here, there is one famous place where you should stop first. 

Hobbiton Movie Set

Leave Hahei in the morning and drive towards Matamata, home of the world-famous Hobbiton movie set.

It may be the most overpriced tourist attraction in the whole of New Zealand, but if you are a Lord Of The Rings fan just as I am, then unleash your inner hobbit and splurge 80 NZ dollars for a tour around the shire!

Originally I wasn’t going to do it, but one day I found myself driving past Hobbiton and gave in. I was lucky to get the tickets on the spot, which nowadays is rather unheard of. 

Even though the place receives copious amounts of tourists each year (5000 a day in the peak season) I was still positively surprised by the tour and certainly don’t regret doing it.  

Catch the sunrise at Mount Maunganui 

Once you find yourself in Mount Maunganui – part of the bigger city of Tauranga, hike up to the top of the mountain which carries the same name. To me, this is one of  the best photography spots on the island .

There is a campground located just at the foot of the mountain close to the trailhead, which makes it easier if you decide to go up there to catch the sunrise. If you are traveling by camper van just stay there.

The whole hike takes around 1,5 hours to complete and the route is very well maintained.

The White Island Volcano 

A very popular attraction for Bay of Plenty visitors used to be a  cruise to Whakaari aka The White Island.  It is New Zealand’s most active volcano! 

Unfortunately due to the tragic eruption that occurred in 2019 , a year after my visit. An eruption that claimed the lives of many tourists and guides, the tours were shut.

Currently, the only way to see White Island is on a scenic flight tour from a safe distance.

Day 8-10: Geothermal Rotorua

• Distance from Mount Maunganui to Rotorua: 70km / 43 miles / 1 hour 

Renowned for its geothermal activity and intense egg-like sulfur smell, Rotorua is a must-see for any visitor to the North Island.

What Not To Miss Around Rotorua

Take a stroll through the whakarewarewa redwood forest.

I hope your tongue is still ok after pronouncing it. The giant Californian Redwoods are not native to New Zealand and the forest was planted here in 1901.

Since then it became a big part of the natural landscape of Rotorua and a walk through this beautiful forest definitely won’t disappoint. The hikes are only a few minutes away from the town center and are easily accessible by car.

White Water Rafting

Rotorua was the first place where I tried white water rafting and I was hooked. I could hardly contain my excitement when we were about to glide down the world-renowned 7-meter Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the World!

I am not going to lie, it was a bit scary, but my team all managed to stay in the raft. 

Visit Wai-O-Tapu

It’s the perfect stop on your way toward Taupo which is next on the itinerary. Wai-O-Tapu thermal wonderland is home to the Champagne Pool, which you have probably already seen in some pictures whilst researching information about New Zealand.

There is more to it than just the Champagne Pool though. I published a whole blog post dedicated to this place a while ago. You can  check it out here .

Tamaki Maori Village

If you want to learn a bit about the Maori history and their famous Haka dance in a fun and interactive way make sure to visit the Tamaki Maori village. I have written about the whole experience  here.

Rotorua is for the North Island, and Queenstown is for the South Island – an adventure hub. If climbing into a human-size ball and rolling down the hill is your idea of fun, try zorbing. I did and I loved it! 

After all, what’s a better place to do it than the one where it originated? 

Day 10-12: Taupo and Tongariro Crossing

• Distance from Rotorua to Taupo: 82km / 51 miles / 1 hour   

A tour around New Zealand’s North Island wouldn’t be complete if you missed  the Tongariro Crossing .

It’s the most famous day hike in New Zealand which takes you through spectacular scenery amongst 3 volcanoes: Ngauruhoe (also known as Mount Doom from Lord Of The Rings), Tongariro, and Ruapehu.

The Tongariro crossing can also be done as a circuit, called  Tongariro Northern Circuit ,  but that will take 3-4 days to complete and will require staying in alpine huts or camping. Most people settle for a 19.4 km long, day journey.  

Doing the hike will require some planning ahead. Tongariro National Park is a very remote area and the hike itself is not a loop but a one-way journey.

A lot of visitors organize a shuttle from Taupo to the start of the hike, which then picks you up at the finish line and brings you back to Taupo. If your time is limited that’s your best option.

TIP: You should bear in mind that between October and April, there is a 4-hour time restriction for private vehicles at the Mangatepopo road end – the starting point for the crossing. People wanting to do the entire hike, which takes an average of 7-8 hours, will need to use shuttle transport. 

Day 12-14: Mount Taranaki and Egmont National Park

• Distance from Taupo to New Plymouth: 277km/ 172 miles/ 3h 40 min  

Located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s North Island  Mount Taranaki  is the perfect definition of a stratovolcano. With its perfect conical shape, it could easily pass as the famous Mt Fuji in Japan.

In fact, they look so similar, that Mount Taranaki ‘played’ Mount Fuji in “The Last Samurai” movie starring Tom Cruise.

Mount Egmont National Park , surrounding the peak is a hikers’ Paradise and to me, there is no better way to explore this area than on your feet.

You can find a great selection of hikes and short walks directly on the  DOC’s website  (DOC stands for NZ’s Department of Conservation). 

TIP: When driving towards New Plymouth – the gateway to Mount Egmont National Park – spare a couple of hours to make a stop at the Three Sisters and the Elephant Rock. An impressive rock formation directly on the beach. Just make sure to plan your visit at low tide! 

What Not To Miss In Mount Egmont National Park

Pouakai crossing.

If you are looking for an alternative to Tongariro Crossing, which at times gets overcrowded,  Pouakai Crossing  is your answer.

Similar in length and time (19km/7-8 hours) this hike takes you through the best viewpoints of Mount Taranaki and some of the wildest landscapes in New Zealand.  

For those with more time on their hands, you can plan the whole circuit which takes 2-3 days to complete. I have done it myself and it was one of my favorite multi-day hikes in New Zealand! 

The Goblin Forest

This short 30-minute loop known as the Kamahi Loop Track takes you through the lush rainforest covered in fern and moss endemic to New Zealand. It’s nothing like I’ve ever seen before!

The loop starts at the Mount Egmont Visitor Centre and you can find it on the hike list I linked to earlier. 

Day 14-16: Wellington

• Distance from New Plymouth to Wellington: 352 km / 219 miles / 4h 30 min  

You’ve made it to New Zealand’s capital! There is a fair bit to do over here and I covered it in another  blog post dedicated to Wellington.

On Day 16th  catch the   ferry from Wellington to Picton  across the Cook Strait to begin the second part of your journey. If you think what you’ve seen so far was amazing, you will be soon at a loss for words when road-tripping around the South Island.

The ferry takes around 3 hours and it’s an experience in itself as you will get a first glimpse of the beautiful Marlborough Sounds viewing it from the sea. 

New Zealand 4-6 Week Itinerary Part 2: South Island

You are officially on the South Island. I hope your ferry journey to Picton, around Marlborough Sounds, was pleasant. The bad news is you are halfway through your New Zealand road trip

I know, the time flies way too fast! I hope you are having tons of fun so far. The good news is the best is yet to come so strap your seat belt on and let’s continue! 

Day 16-17: Marlborough Sounds

There are a few little towns in the vicinity which include Blenheim, Picton, and Havelock. Personally, Picton is my favorite as it’s right where you will dock when coming from the North Island,  but all 3 towns boast similar attributes and attractions.

Best things to do in Marlborough region

Explore the marlborough sounds on foot.

The official tourism site for the Marlborough region is a well of information about  short walks in this region . Make sure to take advantage of the crisp air and sunshine and pick a few walks to feed your soul. 

Go wine tasting

If you are a wine lover chances are you have heard of the Marlborough region and its famous wineries. This part of New Zealand is blessed with perfect conditions for grape cultivation and produces over 75% of New Zealand’s wine! There are  plenty of tours to choose from  for all budgets. 

Take the Queen Charlotte Scenic Drive 

The road links Picton to Havelock and it has made it onto my list of the top 10 scenic roads on the South Island of New Zealand. This 40-kilometer-long and windy drive will take you through numerous bays and viewpoints of the Marlborough sounds. You can learn more about it  here.  

Day 17-19: Abel Tasman National Park & Golden Bay

• Distance from Havelock to Takaka: 177 km / 110 miles / 2h 40 min 
• Distance from Takaka to Wharariki Beach and back: 108 km / 68 miles / 1 hour each way 

From Havelock continue towards your next destination –  the Golden Bay.

There are a few small towns where you can choose to stay for the next couple of days, the most sought-after of which is  Takaka  offering great access  to Wharariki Beach, Farewell Spit,  and  Abel Tasman National Park 

Top Things to Do Around Golden Bay and Abel Tasman National Park

Wharariki beach.

An absolute must-stop for any photography enthusiasts. The beach is a 20-minute walk away from the nearest parking lot. As you approach it, the Archway Islands right off the coast will come into your full view. This is one of my personal favorite photography spots on the South Island! 

If you happen to be here around April make sure to look out for seal pups often playing in the tidal pools. It’s a fun way to spend the afternoon observing them in their natural habitat, whilst their mums rest on the cliffs.

It’s not uncommon for the pups to approach you, but please avoid disturbing their rhythm. Keep the wildlife wild! 

Farewell Spit

Do me a favor and google the satellite images of the Farewell Spit and you will quickly notice it looks like the head of a kiwi bird. Made from fine golden sand Farewell Spit is the longest sand spit in New Zealand stretching for a whooping 26 kilometers!

It’s possible to walk on it, but you’ve got to be careful with the tides as people have become stranded before, by venturing too far out. 

Abel Tasman National Park 

If you are a fan of white sand beaches and water sports you should pay Abel Tasman National Park a visit. There is plenty of hikes you can do around here, as well as  outdoor activities such as sailing or kayaking . 

Day 19-21: Nelson Lakes National Park

• Distance from Takaka to Nelson Lakes NP: 154 km / 96 miles / 2h 20 mins 

It’s a short 2-hour and 30-minute drive back over Takaka Hill then due south to Nelson Lakes National Park. St Arnaud is a tiny town with few amenities (apart from awesome fish and chips) but its location is second to none. 

St Arnaud lies on the northern shore of Lake Rotoiti, where you can find a couple of scenic piers giving great photo opportunities. Reflecting in the lake is Mount Robert.

Don’t jump into the water though. There is quite a lot of eel swimming around right next to the piers. I found them a bit creepy. 

Nelson Lakes is a great area for nature lovers with many hikes and a few backcountry huts to choose from. There is a great DOC campsite right near the lakeshore, just make sure to pack enough bug repellent to keep those nasty sandflies at bay! 

Where To Hike Around Nelson Lakes National Park

Mount robert circuit.

Hands down the best hike in the area is the loop up Mount Robert. This 4-5 hours long but rewarding hike offers vistas of Lake Rotoiti far below. For more information on this hike head to the  DOC website.  

Lake Angelus 

Though an overnight stay in the Lake Angelus hut is recommended for anyone undertaking this track, if you are a fast-paced hiker, you can complete this 24-kilometer hike in a day. The route takes you to a beautiful and remote Lake Angelus. More info on this route is here.

Day 21-23: Arthur’s Pass National Park via Punakaiki

• Distance from St Arnaud to Punakaiki: 199 km / 123 miles / 2h 40 min
• Distance from Punakaiki to Arthur’s Pass:  139km / 86 miles / 2 h 

Just under 3 hours West of St Arnaud, Punakaiki is home to the famous Pancakes Rocks & the gateway to Paparoa National Park. 

Pancake Rocks

The Pancake Rocks are a short 20-minute walk along a set of built-in platforms and it will serve as a great stop for a break to stretch your legs before you continue. Prepare to get wet as crushing waves push through the blowholes creating a misty atmosphere all around you. 

After a stop in Punakaiki keep driving for another 2 hours to your next destination – Arthur’s Pass National Park, where high up in the mountains there’s plenty of hiking to be done and stunning landscapes to see. Here are my top tips. 

Where To Hike Around Arthur’s Pass National Park

Bealey spur track.

A moderate (5-hour return) hike which stays mainly within the bush line is a lovely day out exploring the forest. The views do get better but not right until the very end, where it comes out just below a ridgeline and offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and of the Waimakariri River.

The track starts 14km south of Arthurs Pass village at the end of Cloudesley Road.

Avalanche Peak 

Avalanche Peak is a difficult full-day hike that takes approximately 6-8 hours to complete. The views are so good from the summit though that this is the most popular walk in Arthur’s Pass. The Avalanche Peak track starts in the center of the village, right behind the visitor center office.

Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall

Located a short drive away from the center of the village northbound on the 73. The walk itself doesn’t take long (around an hour) and is very well maintained, but it does include a series of steps which at times can be slippery. 

Lake Pearson and Castle Hill 

If you have any extra time to spare, Lake Pearson and Castle Hill are worth a little detour. The latter location is famous for the Lord of the Rings franchise.

They are respectively 30 and 45 minutes drive away from Arthur’s Pass village but in the opposite direction to where you will be going next. Lake Pearson is particularly stunning during the autumn season when the trees at the lakeshore turn yellow. 

Day 23-25: Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers via Hokitika

• Distance from Arthur’s Pass to Hokitika Gorge*: 132km / 82 miles / 1h 45 min
• Hokitika Gorge to Franz Josef: 161 km / 100 miles / 2h 5 min

Now that you’ve been acquainted with the beautiful Southern Alps it’s time for the Glacier Country. From Arthur’s Pass Village continue your road trip west back to the coast.

Hokitika Gorge

To stretch your legs on this windy journey stop at the Hokitika Gorge and later grab lunch in the town of the same name. Fish & Chips always taste better on the coast!

Hokitika is also one of the hubs where Pounamu, a type of Greenstone, is commercially mined and skilfully crafted into beautiful pieces of jewelry and other grand sculptures.

If you’re looking to purchase a memento to remind yourself of your trip to New Zealand, maybe some Pounamu is what you’re after. After all, the South Island is called Te Wai Pounamu in Maori (The Waters of Greenstone). 

TIP: If you want to skip Hokitika Gorge, which requires a slight detour, you will take off 60km or 37 miles (an hour of driving time) from your journey between Arthur’s Pass and Franz Josef making it a total of 233 km  / 145 miles and just under 3 hours. 

Best things to do in Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers

Glacier hiking.

Franz Josef and Fox villages are homes to New Zealand’s most famous glaciers and the best way to explore the theme is by doing a Heli hike. 

Because I’ve done guided glacier hiking on one of the most impressive glaciers in the world – Perito Moreno in Patagonia, I decided to skip this activity in NZ. Ice trekking still remains one of the coolest things I’ve ever done though, so if you’ve got some money to spare go glacier hiking in New Zealand. 

You will be taken up on the glacier by a helicopter and guided through crevasses, an experience you won’t ever be able to forget.

Hike Franz Josef and Fox Glacier Valley

Apart from doing that awesome heli hike, you can also hike through both Fox and Franz Josef Valleys to the foot of the Glaciers. Both of them are just 20 min drive apart. Unfortunately, the viewpoints at the end of the hikes aren’t keeping up with the speed at which both glaciers are receding, due to global warming. 

The walk to Fox Glacier is a 2.6km (return) one-hour stroll and the hike to Franz Josef is a 5.4km (return) which should take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Admire reflections at Lake Matheson

Lake Matheson is only a few minutes’ drive away from Fox Glacier. Get up for sunrise and hike counterclockwise to the reflection island from where you can photograph New Zealand’s highest peak Mount Cook reflecting perfectly in the water. Soon you will get a chance to see it from a much closer distance, but I left the best for last.

Alex Knob Track

This 6-8 hour challenging hike takes you to the best viewpoint of the Franz Josef glacier and all that for free! If you are on a budget and don’t have a few hundred bucks to spend on a Heli hike then this is your best option to see the glacier in all its glory from high above.

Once again, the DOC website  is a great resource if you plan on doing this hike and it will tell you all about how to get there or any recent closures, which might have occurred. 

Day 25-27: Wanaka & Mount Aspiring National Park

• Distance between Franz Josef and Wanaka: 286km /178 miles/ 3h 45 min 

The drive to Wanaka over the Haast past is an eventful one. This ca 4-hour journey can easily turn into a full-day drive if you plan to stop at these great viewpoints for a break (and you should): The Blue Pools, Fantail Falls, or Lake Hawea. 

Wanaka is one of the destinations on the South Island you simply can’t skip and I have written two separate articles about  the best photography spots  and  top day hikes  in the area. 

Top Activities in Wanaka

You would be crazy not to take advantage of the many outdoor activities Wanaka has on offer. From chill, boat rides across the lake, through hiking and kayaking tours to scenic helicopter flights and even skydiving! 

Another positive is that Wanaka is still emerging as an adventure destination and a big contender to Queenstown, just less crowded.

Wanaka Scenic Helicopter Flight

I have done many scenic flights in different parts of New Zealand and I still think Wanaka and its neighboring Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the best places to do it.

Soar high above the Matukituki Valley up towards the glacier, where you will land for a mandatory photo spot. Gaze at the otherworldly landscape, with its deep blue chasms and stunning glacial caps.

Wanaka 4×4 ride to Mount Burke

Hop aboard a shuttle boat and traverse Lake Wanaka, journeying toward the head of Stevenson’s arm. Marvel at the ever-changing landscape of steep walls and majestic alpine peaks that surround you. Delve into the captivating history of this sparsely inhabited region.

Pass by Stevenson’s Island and alight at the base of Mount Burke. Here, step onto a 4×4 vehicle with your knowledgeable guide, embarking on an ascent high above the lake. If that didn’t sound appealing enough, you will get to enjoy a picnic on the mountain with some of the best views in the country.

Wanaka Self-Guide MTB Tour

Biking from Lake Hawea back to Wanaka is the ultimate bike route in this region. After renting your bike in Wanaka you will be transported to the nearby town of Hawea where you will start your ride on the serene Hawea River Track, surrounded by mountains.

This biking experience promises an unbeatable blend of scenic beauty and enjoyable moments and it was one of my favorite experiences in Wanaka. Make sure to grab an ice cream cone from Patagonia ice cream shop once you finish the ride.

Day 27-30: Queenstown & Glenorchy

• Distance from Wanaka to Queenstown: 67km / 42 miles / 1 hour  

Next on the itinerary is  t he adventure capital of the World – Queenstown. To get there take the scenic Crown Range road through the stunning Cardona Valley. There are plenty of roadside stops along the way so don’t expect to get to Queenstown within an hour even if your GPS might say so!  

Top Things to Do Around Queenstown

I lived and worked in Queenstown for 7 months during the 15 months I spent in New Zealand and I still find myself missing this place a lot! 

You can do everything here: bungy jumping, skydiving, and jetboating are some of the more sought-after  activities in Queenstown  but you don’t need to be rich to have fun here! 

There are plenty of  photo-worthy spots you can visit around Queenstown .  It’s difficult to take bad photos of Lake Wakatipu surrounded by the jagged mountain peaks! 

With all the big mountains the choice of  day hikes around Queenstown  is quite extensive. Ben Lomond and Queenstown Hill are the most popular, but make sure to jump to my other article to see the alternatives! 

If you don’t feel like hiking or adrenaline-filled activities then day trips out to Glenorchy or Arrowtown are your best bet. They are busy but nothing in comparison to Queenstown and they are filled with lots of quaint cafés. 

Day 30-32: Te Anau and Fiordland National Park

• Distance from Queenstown to Te Anau: 171 km / 106 miles / 2h 5 min
• Distance from Te Anau to Milford Sound (one way): 118 km / 73 miles / 1h 45 min

From Queenstown, it’s a long but very scenic drive to Milford Sound. If you want to break up the journey consider stopping in Te Anau for the night then drive the famous Te Anau to Milford Sound road early the next day.

There’s a multitude of road-side stops (Mirror Lakes, Eglinton, or Hollyford Valleys) and hikes on the way including Lake Marian, Key Summit (part of the  Routeburn Trek ), and the Gertrude Saddle, both being my  top hikes on the South Island.  

You simply can’t come to New Zealand without visiting a ‘Sound’ in Fiordland National Park and if you have extra time or prefer off-the-beaten-path places you should also consider seeing Doubtful Sound or Dusky Sound as well as Milford. 

Best things to do in Te Anau & Fiordland National Park

Milford sound .

Make sure to set off early from Te Anau. Around 7 AM would be my bet. I know that’s early, but trust me it will be worth it, and that way you will avoid the tour buses and have all the spots along the way to Milford Sound to yourself.

I have a whole  article dedicated to Milford Sound , where you can read about the best options for exploring the area as well as a few interesting facts about the Fjord which may surprise you. 

If you are looking for a unique way to experience Milford Sound try the  overnight cruise .

Doubtful Sound

Milford Sound is a busy place, there is no need to sugarcoat it. Even though I believe it shouldn’t be missed, there are others who simply prefer quieter places.

In this case, consider booking a trip to Doubtful Sound from Te Anau instead. Doubtful Sound is a bigger yet a lot less commercialized Fjord in the Fiordland National Park. If you have the budget for it go and do both.

IMPORTANT:  The road from Te Anau to Milford Sound does close some days during the winter due to snowfall. Always check the weather conditions with DOC first before you set off. Sometimes snow chains are also required. Make sure your rental vehicle is equipped with them before you hit the road!

TIP:  Milford Sound Lodge is the only place to stay in Milford Sound for independent travelers. Reservations can only be made directly with them. Book as far ahead as you can as the spots fill up quickly.

If you are traveling in a camper or your own camping equipment, there are a few basic DOC campgrounds along the way from Te Anau to Milford Sound as well. CamperMate will guide you to those. 

Day 32-34: Catlins Forest Park, Nugget Point, Moeraki Boulders, Dunedin

Day 32 will be a proper road trip day for you. Once you make it to the East Coast you can start your day by exploring Catlins Forest Park.

It’s still a relatively quiet corner of New Zealand, especially when put against Queenstown or Milford Sound. For that particular reason, I think you should definitely include it in your itinerary. 

What Not To Miss Between The Catlins and Moeraki

The waterfalls .

• Distance from Milford Sound to Catlins Forest Park (Mclean Falls): 327 km / 203 miles / 4h 30 min
• Distance from Catlins Forest Park (Mclean Falls) To Purakaunui Falls: 77 km / 48 miles / 1h 30 min 

There are two waterfalls in Catlins worth checking out. 

The first, and to me a more impressive waterfall, is McLean Falls (pictured above left). It’s a 20-minute walk from the trailhead to the base along a route that can be very rooty underfoot at times but nothing difficult.

The second one, the Purakaunui Falls, is a short 15-minute stroll along a well-maintained boardwalk to a multitiered fan waterfall. (Pictured above right). 

Nugget Point Lighthouse 

• Distance from Purakaunui Falls to Nugget Point: 48 km / 30 miles / 45 min

The next stop is the scenic Nugget Point Lighthouse and its famous off-shore nuggets. The walk to the lighthouse is easy and takes less than 30 minutes!

After visiting the lighthouse you can head further North towards Dunedin – the second largest city on the South Island.

Tunnel Beach and Dunedin

• Distance from Nugget Point to Tunnel Beach (Dunedin): 123 km / 76 miles / 1h 40 min

If you do decide to spend more time around Dunedin, you can visit St Clair’s Beach or Tunnel Beach. The latter in particular was my favorite in the area. I went there at sunrise and had the whole place to myself! 

People also tend to flock to the world’s steepest street, which brought Dunedin into the tourist spotlight.  Quite frankly I was a bit underwhelmed by the street and I personally think it’s just marketing doing its job. Don’t feel bad about skipping it!

Moeraki Boulders 

• Distance from Dunedin to Moeraki: 76 km / 47 miles / 1 hour

A further 1 hour north you will find the little town called Moeraki – the home of the famous globular Moeraki Boulders scattered on the beach. At roughly 5 million years old, they are an interesting formation accessible by a two-minute walk from the nearby parking lot.

They are typically most photogenic at sunrise as the beach faces east and are best viewed at low tide!  Make sure to check the tide before heading out there. During high tide, the boulders are submerged in water and the walk is not accessible!  

See the wild penguins  

A further ten-minute drive south from Moeraki will take you to the Katiki Point Lighthouse.

In the late afternoon, close to the lighthouse Yellow Eyed Penguins, a native New Zealand penguin species make their journey back from the Pacific Ocean to their homes on the hillside after a long day of fishing. 

It’s a beautiful sight when the pairs find each other and a great opportunity to learn something. 

Important! Unfortunately in recent years, due to too much human interference, fewer and fewer penguins started to appear. If you do decide to visit this point, please do not interfere with the penguin’s schedule and do not block their path just for a photo. If you see someone else doing it, make sure to gently explain to them, that what they doing is wrong. 

* Note the photo above was taken with a big telephoto lens and I was far away from the birds.  

Day 34-36: Mount Cook National Park

• Distance from Moeraki to Mount Cook: 245 km / 152 miles / 3 hours

Do you remember when I said earlier that I left the best for last? The time has finally come to visit Mount Cook National Park.

The drive from Moeraki to Mount Cook will take you at least half a day. Not because of the distance, but because of the stops. Make sure to halt along Lake Pukaki, particularly at St Peter’s Lookout.

If you are lucky to see it on a sunny day you will have a hard time believing the turquoise color of this glacier-fed lake. 

I have dedicated a whole article to  Mount Cook National Park for first-time visitors , where you will find trail guides, top activities, and my recommendations on accommodation.  

Day 36-38: Lake Tekapo

• Distance from Mount Cook to Tekapo: 105 km / 65 miles / 1h 15 min 

Take the Mount Cook Road back along the lakeshore of Lake Pukaki. Once you get to the end of it turn left on number 8 and continue for about half an hour until you get to Tekapo. 

What You Can Do Around Lake Tekapo

Star gazing.

Star gazing is generally incredible in all of New Zealand as long as you are in a dark spot away from city lights, but due to Lake Tekapo being the first International Dark Sky Reserve in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s pretty awesome around here.

You can learn about astronomy through state-of-the-art interactive multimedia installations and immerse yourself in a unique experience bringing together Maori astronomy and science. All of the above is included in the Tekapo: Indoor Māori Heritage and Astronomy Experience.

The Church of the Good Shepherd

Within walking distance of the town center, The Church of the Good Shepherd is a very photogenic beautiful little chapel situated close to the shore of the lake.

Be warned though, it’s very popular so if you don’t like the crowds, I would say leave this one out and just take a walk along the shoreline. 

Lupin Flowers (seasonal)

Lake Tekapo has gained international fame thanks to this weed! Lupin flowers are simply just weeds and invasive ones too! It has made its way into the island along with other unwelcome plants brought with the white settlers. 

With that said no one can deny that Lupin flowers in bloom create fantastic scenery where everything goes into a beautiful shade of pink and purple.

It’s worth noting that the lupins are only in bloom for around 6 weeks from mid-November until the start of the new year. 

Mount John Observatory 

15 minutes uphill drive back along State Highway 8 out of town leads you toward Mount John Observatory (on the right-hand side).

Complete with night sky tours, an awesome Astro cafe, and the opportunity to look through really really big telescopes at night. Undoubtedly this is the best spot to see Lake Tekapo in all its glory. I think the photo above can speak for itself.   

Day 38-40 – Christchurch & Akaroa

• Distance from Tekapo to   Akaroa: 281 km / 175 miles / 3h 30 min
• Distance from Akaroa to Christchurch: 81km / 50 miles / 1h 15 min

Christchurch doesn’t exactly boast great fame apart from the fact that it was badly affected by the 2010 earthquake whose aftermath of can still be seen around the city center. I personally wouldn’t prioritize visiting Christchurch over other places in New Zealand.

If you are short on time don’t feel bad about skipping it altogether, if however you are a city fan spend a day scouting the city. 

I think the Akaroa Peninsula is a much nicer place where you can spend the next two days just relaxing and spending more time in nature, because you know, the last 6 weeks obviously weren’t enough! 

For some ideas on what to do in Akaroa head to the  official tourism website for the region. 

Day 40-42 – Kaikoura

• Distance from Christchurch to Kaikoura: 181 km / 112 miles / 2h 30 min

This is the last stop on your epic journey around New Zealand. I know it’s sad that the road trip is coming to an end, but If you liked New Zealand just as much as I did, then you are probably already planning a return trip.

Top Things To Do Around Kaikoura

Whale-watching .

Kaikoura – where the mountains meet the sea! This small coastal town is one of the best places in New Zealand to see resident and migratory whales transitioning between cooler and warm waters. Other wildlife includes seal colonies, pods of dolphins, and communities of seabirds. 

Whale-watching tours can be taken by boat with Whale Watch Kaikoura. You also have the option to take a scenic flight and see them from above.

Hiking  Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

The second best to do around Kaikoura is a hike.  There are two awesome trails here offering completely different views.

The first is the  Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway.  it can be anything from 200m long to 12km long depending on how far you want to walk. The walk takes you are the Peninsula, where you can breathe the fresh ocean air whilst looking at the Seaward range behind you! 

Mt Fyffe Summit

The other hike is up Mount Fyffe.  It’s harder than the previous one, but the views are more rewarding .  In total, it’s a 5-7 hour return with over 1000m of elevation gain.

There are several viewpoints along the hike of the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and also, a great backcountry hut, where you can spend the night if you need some time in the wilderness! 

The total distance for this New Zealand itinerary

And that’s a wrap! You just spent 6 weeks virtually driving around this beautiful country with me! Let me know what you think. If by now your love for New Zealand is at least half as strong as mine, then I recognize your trip will be a total success! 

Your last task is to decide where you want to finish your road trip.

You can either head back to Christchurch, where you will have access to an International Airport, or if you don’t want to repeat the same journey then continue north back to Picton, where you started your South Island road trip part and catch the ferry back to Wellington. The distances between the two are almost identical. 

The total distance for this itinerary (excluding the ferry crossing) is 5500 kilometers or 3420 miles.

Please bear in mind that this does not include distances such as driving around the towns etc.  You can easily add another 10% making it a total of ca 6000 kilometers or 3730 miles. 

How to shorten this itinerary to 4 weeks

I know how hard it can be on deciding which places to visit and which ones to skip. We all want to see it all, but sometimes it’s just not possible. 

I realize that some of you may not have 6 weeks to travel around New Zealand. You can either check my other itineraries in the  New Zealand Travel Guide   or  follow the tips below to turn this one into a 4-week plan. 

• Skip the Northland  at the start of the trip (it will save you 3 days) 
• From Coromandel head straight to Rotorua.  If you insist on seeing the White Island, you can still do a trip from Rotorua, as there are companies providing a shuttle to Whakatane, where the tour departs from (this will save you 2 days)  
• Skip the Golden Bay  and from Marlborough Sounds head straight to Nelson Lakes NP (2 days saved) 
• Arthur’s Pass  requires a little detour so you can cross it off as well. Although to me personally Arthur’s Pass is really worth visiting and I would only cross it off as a last resort (another 2 days saved). 
• After the visit to  Fiordland National Park,  you can go  straight to Mount Cook National Park , skipping the East Coast (3 days saved) 
• After Tekapo drive to Christchurch and finish the trip there,  crossing Kaikoura off the list  (2 days saved)  

In total, you will be able to shave off 14 days of this itinerary! 

Support my site

If you found the articles in my New Zealand Guide useful please consider supporting my work by booking hotels, rental cars, or activities through my affiliate links. The price for you stays the same and I receive a small commission. Thank you!

• Book a rental car with Discover Cars
• Reserve a campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Find hotels with Booking.com
• Book your tours & activities with Get Your Guide

P.S . If you have any questions, post them in the comments below. I answer all comments personally.

24 thoughts on “A Complete 4 to 8 Weeks Self Drive Travel Itinerary around New Zealand”

Hi Marta, what a fantastic blog; I read it from start to finish! My wife and I will be doing our honeymoon to New Zealand this December 2024. However, we only have 13 days and so I was trying to pick and choose from your itinerary. Do you have any recommendations for a 13 day itinerary? Would flying from North to South Island be more feasible rather than taking the ferry? Thank you for any insight and again, what a wonderful trip plan!

Hi Kevin. Thanks for stopping by my page and for your great feedback. Yes I do have a couple 2-week itineraries one for the North and South and the other for the South Island only aimed at hikers. I would recommend that you look into those.

Hi, your itinerary is amazing, beautiful photos ! We are heading to NZ in October and will be there for 5 weeks. We are supposed to be flying into and out of Christchurch via Auckland but I am thinking, from your itinerary, to get off at Auckland and do North then South island and finish at Christchurch OR start and finish at Christchurch, doing a round trip of the south then cross to the North to do a round trip of the North then back down to CC but I would much prefer to avoid travelling the same roads if possible…Do you think the second route is feasible if we cannot start at Auckland or should we focus solely on the South? We will travel by car or camper, not decided yet!! Thanks

Hi Jon. Flying into Auckland and out of Christchurch will definitely save you some time and money. I would definitely recommend doing that. 5 weeks is enough to see both islands but you will also have to prioritize. If you do end up going in and out of Christchurch then I would recommend that you skip the North part of the North Island because that will just be way too much driving. You could also consider doing a part of your trip in a campervan and a part in a regular car. I hope that helps!

Hi Marta, thanks for the tips. We had actually talked about doing half the trip by car and half by van so which sections do you think are best for either?! Unless we can change our flights then we will have to a round trip from and back to CC, so I’m thinking to drive north first, miss out the far north like you suggested and then do the South Island to finish with a bang!

Hi Jon. You can drive from Christchurch to Picton with a stop in Kaikoura first then cross to the North Island, do a little loop around there (I would suggest visiting Mt Egmont and Tongariro National Parks + Rotorua). Drive back to Wellington, drop off the van in Wellington (you can rent and drop off cars in different locations in NZ) and rent a regular car then cross back on the ferry to the South Island and follow my itinerary for the South Island as suggested in the article finishing in Christchurch. I hope that helps!

Hi Marta, thanks so much for publishing this, it’s fantastic, just the kind of itinerary I was looking for! I am a keen hiker, and thinking of spending 6 weeks in NZ. My thought had been to start at the beginning of April and end mid May, which would mean getting to Arrowtown area near (hopefully!) the peak colour, and cheaper prices for things like van rental, but would mean getting to Milford Sound at the start of May, then working up back to Christchurch over the next couple of weeks. Would this likely result in cold, rainy weather, and be an inadvisably late finish? I would quite like seeing some snow, but gloomy rainy weather all the time, not so much, and I know hikes could start to get treacherous as it gets cold. Are many mountain hikes likely to be closed as May gets going? I camped in a campervan in the mountains of US and Canada when it got a little below zero overnight without problem, but only maybe -2 or so. What are your thoughts on doing the trip at this time?

Many thanks, Matthew

Hi Matthew. I am so glad to hear you find the itinerary useful. Now to your question. NZ is generally a country that receives a lot of rain. You never have a guarantee that you will always have good weather. I travelled the South Island at the start of May too and we had all kinds of weather conditions. There was already snow on the ground in Mt Cook. Milford Sound was beautifully sunny and autumn colours in arrowtown were beautiful. The nights can get cold, but NZ has a rather mild climate so even in winters the cold never gets too extreme. With that said it was the coldest winter I ever experiences because the house I lived in had no heating, just a fireplace, which isn’t all that uncommon. Whilst some hikes might already not be doable, the lower elevation hikes gain be done year-round. If you come prepared there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to travel at this time. I hope that helps!

This itinerary looks spectacular. I am hoping to do a four week version of it with a few friends next February/March. I like staying in one place for a few nights in a row whenever possible. Do you think that is possible with a four week itinerary, or are we going to have to move every 1-2 nights to fit it all in?

Hi Catherine. Thanks for visiting. The problem is you can’t see it all and still spend 4 days in each location if you only have 4 weeks. You can’t stretch time. If you want to see less places and still visit north and South Island then I would recommend that you look into my two week itinerary for North and South Island itinerary and Connect it with this two-week South Island itinerary (you will notice that some places on the South Island overlap in both itineraries). This will allow you to stay longer in each place (I would recommend you give yourself ca. 10 days for North Island and 18 days for South) and will cut out some of the locations that are featured in my 4-8 week itinerary. I hope that helps!

Hello Marta, Thank you for providing a detailed trip plan. We are planning to our first visit to New Zealand towards the end of September to October. Do you think the weather will be appropriate for a 4-6 week road trip during this time? We do not mind it being a little cooler as long as it’s safe for us to drive. We will certainly use your affiliate links as we book our accommodation for the trip. Thank you kindly.

Hi Kiran. Thanks for visiting. If your plan is to hike then many hikes still won’t be accessible in September due to snow so you will have to stick to lower elevation hikes. The official hiking season starts in November, but depending on the conditions it might be possible that the snow melts earlier (it’s around +/- two weeks). However I don’t know what the winter will look like this season in New Zealand so you will just have to watch the reports when it will be getting closer to your trip. Definitely start with North Island first. New Zealand is a rainy country so you have to take that under consideration. Driving will be totally fine. It hardly ever snows down to the ground level in the valleys. If it does then the snow is gone within a day. It only stays at higher elevations where it is colder. I hope that helps. Thanks for using the links!

Hi Marta, thanks fort the great article it was very helpful. I have a question regarding renting a car + staying in a tent vs campervan (solo traveler)

obviously car will be much cheaper’ but are there enough campsites suitable for tents which including kitchen + basic facilities?

Hi Ron. Thanks for visiting. I travelled this way myself when I first visited NZ and yes there are enough campsites with kitchen facilities where you can stay and cook your food etc. If you want to stay in more remote places then just bring a small camp cooker with you and a couple of camping pots and you will surive for a few days like that too. i hope that helps!

Myself and my girlfriend have used your itenary for our two week trip of the north island, and have loved all the sugestions. We have four weeks in the south island but finish in Queenstown, how would you suggest we change the itenary so that this is possible ?

Hi Hugh. I am glad to hear that. My suggestion is that after days 32-33 in the Caitlins you head to Christchurch then Kaikoura -> Tekapo -> Mt Cook and from there back to Queenstown. So basically just rearrange the order.

Thank you this is so helpful. We are starting our NZ road trip in January starting in Auckland and ending in Christchurch and we will very much use your blog to help us plan our itinerary. Please could you kindly advise on how much roughly the fuel will cost to cover this length of road trip? Thank you.

Hi Erin. The fuel consumption depends on so many things, from exactly how many kilometres you plan on doing to what type of car you are renting and the style of your driving that it is difficult for me to give you an estimate. Add the kilometres together then add around 10% more to that. Then see how many litres per hundred kms your rental car consumes (usually 6-7 liters, but campervans for instance consume a lot more). Then divide the total kilometre count by 100 and multiply the outcome by the kilometre consumption. For example if you were to do 5000 kilometres that would be 5000/100 – 50 x 7 liter (if your car consumes 7liter/100km) = 350 liter multiplied by 3NZD (that’s how much approx fuel costs in NZ atm) = 1050 NZD. That’s just approximate. As I said it depends on your route etc. I hope that helps slightly 🙂

Hello Marta,

First of all many thanks for the great material for the travellers like us.

We (2 adults and a 9 months old Baby) will be visiting New Zeeland for two months in February and March. Since the temperature on February more friendly, we thought, after landing to Auckland, to drive as quick as possible to southern island and spend the February there and come back to northern island in March. Do you think that this makes sense because of the climate?

For sure our baby son won’t allow us to drive all the way from Auckland to Wellington in one single shot. If you would pick one or two spots to spend 1-2 days on that road, which places would they be?

Thanks in advance Greetings from Munich Ouz

Hi Ouz. Thanks for visiting my site and sorry for late reply. I was out on a hut to hut trek 🙂 Yes your plan makes sense although March on the South Island is still very nice (kind of like September in northern Hemisphere. As for the stops between Auckland and Wellington, Rotorua and Taupo are the two place worth stopping at.

Hi Marta, such a great plan! I was wondering which season is best suited for each island? I am coming in mid Jan, and planning to stay here for 8 months. I have heard that winter in Southland gets cold, is it better to do Northland in winter? Any recommendation would be appreciated, thanks

Hey Henry. Thanks for your great feedback. I wouldn’t recommend travelling during winter time on neither of the islands. Whilst the North Island is warmer than the south the nights can still easily drop to zero degrees and in the mountainous regions even below zero. Summer and Autumn are the best for travelling so basically from December until late April. If you plan on doing hikes stick to those places.

Hello Marta, Thank you for the detailed trip plan. I am planning my solo trip for next summer in new zealand and yours was the best I found online.Is there anyway i can purchase a PDF of the trip?

Hi Fatima. Thanks for visiting. Unfortunately, I do not have a PDF version of this, but there are ways you can turn a webpage into a pdf which you can find on google. If you loved this itinerary I would really appreciate if you used affiliate links on my site. Let me know if you have any questions!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Disclaimer:  The locations and hikes on this website have been researched by the author and are believed to be accurate at the time of publishing. The author can take no responsibility for any unforeseen circumstances encountered along the routes. Anyone following these trails or road trip itineraries should be aware of any danger that hiking and climbing bring and understand that they are solely responsible for their safety.

Copyright © In A Faraway Land 2024

Why This Unique Form Of Travel Is Regarded As The Best Way To Explore New Zealand

W hether it's planes, trains, or automobiles, it seems the ways to travel around the world are endless. Some modes of transportation are simply better than others in particular destinations. In New York City, folks heavily rely on the MTA subway system. In Italy and Japan, high-speed trains are the way to go. New Zealand, however, has one unique way that makes the most sense to best properly explore its rugged natural beauty.

Did you really go to New Zealand if you didn't rent a camper van? That is the question. Aside from the obvious reasons one rents a car when traveling, like having control over your own itinerary, moving entirely at your own pace, and not rushing or planning around plane and train schedules, there are a few strong reasons almost everyone who visits New Zealand decides to live out their van life dreams. If you're looking to get away from it all in a place where there are more sheep than people, let's start planning your camper van getaway to one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

Read more: The Best Methods For Securing Your Tent To Feel Safer While Camping

Ditch The Hotel And Stay At A Campground

Whether you decide to explore New Zealand's North Island or South Island (or both), one thing is for sure: if you're renting a camper van, you'll be sleeping at a campground. While you could technically still sleep at a hotel, that would somewhat defeat the point. Part of the charm of camping around New Zealand is waking up on stunning beaches  with bright blue waters, like those of Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo, which both get their vibrant color thanks to "glacial flour." 

The most common campgrounds in New Zealand are commercial campgrounds, holiday campgrounds, and Department of Conservation campsites. Many of these campgrounds have bathrooms, toilets, and kitchens for campers to use. There is a nightly fee, but it's usually no more than $10. If you're thinking, "Why do I need a campground to park my van? Can't I just park it on the street and sleep there?" Think again. Several camper laws in New Zealand prohibit you from parking just anywhere. Throughout cities and towns, you will see several signs that forbid parking your camper van overnight. To best determine where the nearest campgrounds are, download an app such as CamperMate .

These Roads Were Made For Driving

What is it about New Zealand that attracts so many van lifers? Aside from the obvious reason that the country is one of the most mesmerizing places on the planet , it's highly recommended to, at least, rent a car when visiting New Zealand because public transportation is somewhat limited. The country has a fairly reliable InterCity bus system that often offers USB plugs and free WiFi, but the roads in New Zealand were meant for one to drive. When driving around the country, you'll notice plenty of stunning views with space for your vehicle to pull over so you can take in the incredible landscape.

It's crucial to remember that in these parts of the world, driving on the left side of the road is key. If that sounds scary, don't fret. The roads are well paved, and in many parts of the country, there are arrows painted on the road to guide you to ensure you're on the right side.

Read the original article on Explore .

Wanderful Stories.

8 x the best ways to travel around New Zealand

• March 8, 2020
• New Zealand , Travel Tips

New Zealand is a beautiful country: the mountains, the national parks, the wildlife – I could go on and on! However, it’s also kind of a big country that may seem intimidating to make your way around at first. How will you get from one highlight to the next? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this post, I’m sharing 8 ways to travel around New Zealand. Hopefully, it’ll help you plan your trip to this incredible destination.

I’ve traveled to New Zealand twice now: in 2015 I visited for about 7 weeks and in 2019 I stayed for 6 months. Both times, I traveled around both islands by car. The first time I rented one, the second time I bought one. I absolutely loved these experiences. However, there are many more options, so there’s a perfect option for everyone. Let’s dive straight in!

Different ways to travel around New Zealand

Here’s an overview of the ways to travel around New Zealand you’re gonna find in this post. Of course, you can combine several of the options below and design your trip to be completely yours!

• By car or campervan
• Hitchhiking
• Take the ferry

1. By car or campervan: complete freedom

The most common way to travel around New Zealand is probably by driving a car or campervan. I’ve chosen this option during both of my travels in the country. I absolutely loved it and would recommend it to anyone. It gives you all the freedom you could wish for in terms of planning (or not planning) your trip.

Within this type of transport, there are many variations. So, you can fit it exactly to what suits you and your plans best. You can choose anything from a simple car to a fully equipped campervan. Likewise, you can decide if you want to rent one at an agency, or buy (and later sell) your own. Let’s look at the options!

Should you pick a car or campervan?

Whether you should go for a car or a campervan depends on a few things. First of all, what kind of vehicle do you want? Do you prefer a big van or would you rather drive a car? Next, where do you want to sleep? If you want to sleep in your vehicle, go for a campervan or a big backpacker car that’s equipped with a bed. However, if you prefer sleeping in a tent or staying in hostels or hotels, a regular car might be a better fit.

Also consider your budget : campervans may often be fully equipped, but they come at a much higher price – both for renting and buying. On the other hand, they’re a little spacier and may enable you to stay on more (free) campsites. If you want to know more about these differences, you can read all about them in my complete New Zealand camping guide .

Renting vs. buying

Then, there’s the question of whether to rent or buy. I’ve done both options once, and really enjoyed both experiences. In the end, it really depends on what kind of trip you’re planning.

Recently, I wrote a blogpost on buying your own backpacker car in New Zealand . In it, I included a pro/con list of both options. It can help you figure out which option is the best for your travel plans. Oh, and if you do decide to buy a car, it also explains the entire process step-by-step!

Good to know : the legal age for renting a car in New Zealand usually is anywhere between 21 and 25. Depending on the rental agency, you may have to pay additional charges if you’re younger than 25 years old.

2. By bus: the social experience

If you’re traveling alone, don’t have a driver’s license or driving yourself just isn’t your thing, another popular option is taking the bus. There are several types of busses in New Zealand. They all have their own unique features, so you can choose exactly the type of experience that fits you. The 3 most common types are:

• Coach – this public transportation network is often the cheapest option. The most well-known operator is InterCity , which can take you pretty much all over New Zealand. Fares start from as low as NZ$1, but you can also buy travel passes and deals.
• Hop-on hop-off busses – this well-known way of traveling is especially popular among backpackers. One of its biggest advantages is the social experience it offers, so it’s great for solo travelers! Although often a bit more expensive, this type usually offers great extras: they can often hook you up with a good hostel or organize tour deals. A variety of passes is available from different operators, such as Kiwi Experience and Stray .
• Organized bus tours – probably the most expensive option of all, organized bus tours offer a third unique experience. They’re ideal if you want your trip to be fully organized and taken care of, and if you love to travel in a group. A fun company for young travelers is Sweet As Travel .

3. By train: scenic routes around the country

Compared to a lot of other countries, trains aren’t a common way of getting around New Zealand. The number of tracks is limited, as are the stops. But although trains aren’t the most popular form of transportation in New Zealand, the tracks that do exist are supposed to offer really beautiful views! Currently, there are three lines that run through the country for passenger transportation:

• Norther Explorer – between Auckland & Wellington, crossing the North Island from north to south
• Coastal Pacific – between Picton & Christchurch, exploring the South Island’s north-west coast
• TranzAlpine – between Christchurch and Greymouth, crossing the South Island’s famous Southern Alps.

Unfortunately, these tracks won’t take you to every highlight in the country. However, you can easily combine them with some of the other options in this post, such as busses or car rental. You can find more info, departure times and current ticket costs, on the official website .

I personally haven’t had the chance to explore New Zealand by train yet, but I really want to try them one! I’d especially love to hop on the TranzAlpine. This 5-hour train journey leaves once a day in either direction and is supposed to be one of the most gorgeous train rides in the world. I can’t wait to try it the next time I visit!

4. By plane: hop from one highlight to the next

New Zealand has quite a few airports, from big international hubs like Auckland Airport to tiny ones spread all across the country. So, by taking a plane you can hit quite a few of the country’s major highlights. This option is especially worth considering if you have very limited time to spend in the country.

There are, however, also a few disadvantages. First of all, it’s not the most environmentally-friendly option. It can also be quite expensive, with flights easily costing NZ$100 – 200. On top of that, take into account that you’ll need local transport to actually reach the specific attractions or city centre from the airports. For this, you can simply grab an Uber or take a local taxi or bus.

5. Hitchhiking: the ultimate budget option

Hitchhiking is the ultimate budget option to travel around New Zealand. It’s a pretty convenient way to save costs in a country that’s expensive enough as it is! Personally, I hitchhiked only once in New Zealand. We wanted to catch a ride to the airport to pick up our rental car. Overall, it was a fun and social experience, and it didn’t cost us nearly as much time to get a ride as we expected.

So although I personally don’t have a lot of experience, I do know that hitchhikers are very common in New Zealand. In general, it is regarded as a pretty safe way to travel around the country. Of course, always do pay attention to whom you’re getting in the car with and trust your intuition.

Keep in mind that this budget option does take away some of your freedom. It may cost a lot of time to catch a ride, or you may not get dropped off at exactly the right spot.

6. By bike: conquer hills and valleys

If you love being active and exploring places by bike, this might be just the option for you! Although it’s not something I ever would’ve imagined myself, I actually saw quite a few bikers making their way along the hills of New Zealand. I’ve met people traveling around the islands by bike and they seemed to love it! They also had a car and would take turns driving. It transported their bags and tent, which they would set up on campsites during nights.

All in all it seems like a pretty cool way to travel around New Zealand! Although I haven’t tried it, I can say with certainty that you have to be really fit and an experienced biker to be able to make your way across the country. Those New Zealand hills aren’t easy for cars to defy, so just imagine what it must be like by bike! I always had so much respect for the people struggling to make their way uphill while we were driving past.

If you are considering this option, please do keep your safety in mind. The NZ roads are long and winding and can be dangerous. You won’t find separate bike lanes outside the (bigger) cities, so the road is shared with cars and trucks.

By the way – if you have a motorbike and license, this is also an incredible way to explore the country! Strap your bag on the back and take the same cool road trip, but with a little less pain getting up those hills, haha.

7. On foot: hike your way to your next destination

Can you really around New Zealand on foot? Well, yes! I’ve met people who’ve walked from one destination to the next. Now, for the average person it may seem a bit unlikely to only use their own two feet to travel around the entire country. Not to mention the amount of time it would take! Luckily, you can easily combine this with any other type of transport from this list. New Zealand offers so many possibilities, just find the combination that’s perfect for you!

You can find walking tracks all across New Zealand. Perhaps the most incredible one is the 3000 km long Te Araroa Trail . This track runs all the way from the very top of the North Island to the South Island’s southernmost port town Bluff. What an incredible experience that must be!

Some of the tracks may be suitable only for the more experienced hiker and trampers, though. If it seems a bit daunting to you, try starting with some “regular” hiking. Some of my favorites include the Ben Lomond hike and the track up to Roys Peak . Incredible views guaranteed! For all New Zealand hiking tracks and info on specific routes, check out the Department of Conservation’s website .

8. Take the ferry

Taking the ferry between the North and South Island was one of my favorite ways to travel in New Zealand. If you’re in the country, I recommend you do it at least once. I’ve taken the ferry about 7 times – mostly because of practical reasons – and each time I’m still amazed at the gorgeous views. My favorite part is the Marlborough Sounds, which are sunken river valleys on the top of the South Island.

There are multiple ferries that sail between Wellington (North Island) to Picton (South Island). I’ve always gone with the Interislander Ferry and really enjoyed the experiences. If possible, book your trip on a sunny day. Grab your camera and go out on the deck for views you’ll never forget. You can also have a coffee or something to eat and enjoy the view from a window in one of the restaurant areas.

Rates for the Interislander start at around NZ$50 for a single person, but depend on the date and time of departure and the type of booking. It is also possible to take your car or campervan for an additional fee. Though the journey isn’t super cheap, there will often be promo codes available. For more info, current prices and promotions, check out the Interislander’s website .

Those are the 8 ways to travel around New Zealand. I still can’t believe how diverse this country is and how many options there are. Really, writing this I just want to go back and try them all! You can customize your experience and get exactly what you want out of your travels. I hope this little guide to New Zealand transportation was helpful in planning trip. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions. What is your favorite way to explore the islands?

Liked this post? Save it for later!

You may also like…

10 x the best campsites on New Zealand’s South Island

3 weeks on the South island of New Zealand: the ultimate road trip itinerary

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hey, I'm Anne Elise

Broke backpacker turned accidental six figure online entrepreneur. while traveling..

I’m living proof that your wildest dreams can come true, and here to help you do the same. If you want to know what it’s really like to live a digital nomad life and how you can travel while making (more than enough) money , you’re in the right place. I’m spilling the juice and giving you all the deets. ‘Cause YOU can have this lifestyle, too (really, trust me on this one). 

Crash course get to know me: I love photography (but honestly, am only sometimes in the mood to be in them) and writing words – this blog is the result of both. You can find me in the ocean, trying out any and every coffee place I come across or hiking in the mountains. Or on  Instagram , if that’s your thing. ;)

Join the adventure

Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest blogs, best travel tips and more, don't worry, we'll never send you spam, only the good stuff, anneelise.s.

Hi there, welcome! I'm Anne Elise, a Dutch long-term traveler, photographer and online storyteller. I'm all about living your own adventure - designing a life that's fully yours, with lots of travel in it. I think everyone should be able to love their life and explore the beauty of the world. So, have a look around, get inspired and let's go on awesome adventures together!

Destinations, travel guides, photography, join the club, © wanderful stories. all rights reserved. legal..

New Zealand Travel Guide

Your ultimate new zealand travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in new zealand. great for first-time and returning travelers..

New Zealand really does conjure up images of Middle Earth.

It is a land filled with breathtaking scenery , striking mountains, pristine beaches, lush forests and rolling hills.

The landscape is so diverse in such a small space.

One minute you can be walking on a glacier and the next you can be hiking beside a waterfall. It is simply an unforgettable journey. 

This New Zealand  travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular City Guides

• Top Things to do in New Zealand
• Christchurch
• Bunjee Jumping

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about New Zealand

• New Zealand power voltage is 220 V 50Hz;  Plug I
• The currency is the New Zealand Dollar and is around 1.20 NZD to 1.35 USD
• Internet can be slow and expensive, travelers can check out McDonalds and libraries for  free Wi-Fi .
• Tipping is not customary in New Zealand, so you don’t need to leave anything extra unless the service was truly exemplary.
• You can get a local sim card from Vodaphone once you arrive in New Zealand. We recommend this for longer stays.

Things to See and Do in New Zealand

• Sky Dive Abel Tasman – enjoy the outstanding scenery as you jump from the 16,500 feet.
• Whitewater Raft Class 5 Rapids  – go on the ultimate white water rafting experience through freezing glacial waters and the ultimate class 5 rapids.
• Swim with Dolphins – have a special and personal moment with a dolphin in the Bay of Islands.
• Paraglide in Queenstown  – take a tandem jump and fly high in the sky overlooking the city, lake and mountains.
• Bungy Jump!  – try a bungy jump (yes it’s spelled bungy, not bungee) in New Zealand, the land where it was invented.
• Take a Sailing Adventure – through Abel Tasman
• Tamaki Maori Village  – Rotorua is renowned for its Maori culture experiences and the most well-known of them all is the Tamaki Maori Village Rotorua where travelers can experience a journey into the heart of the Maori culture.
• Visit the Boiling crater of Wai-O-Tapu – also known as the Campagne pool, this geothermal area is filled with thermal springs and geysers
• Trek the Fox Glacier – suit up with thick woolly socks and boots before embarking on a full day walk through this epic glacier.
• Discover the Glow-worm Caves  –  be dazzled by the sparkling display of bioluminescent lights in this cave.
• Check out the Sights of Middle Earth – take a tour with Luxmore Jet for a pinch of adrenaline with a heap of nature through Middle Earth.

New Zealand Travel Guides

• The Tongariro Alpine Crossing: New Zealand’s Best 1 Day Hike
• Best Things to do in Wanaka
• 21 Things to Do in Christchurch, New Zealand

Accommodation

Budget:  New Zealand has a variety of hostels for about 15.5-30 New Zealand dollars per night. These hostels come with dorms, free Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, lounge areas, and great central locations. 

Mid-Range:  Mid-range hotels will cost around 86-150 New Zealand dollars per night. Amenities include private rooms with coffee makers and flat-screen TVs, a hotel restaurant and bar, a gym, and an indoor pool. 

High-End:  For five-star hotels, expect to pay around 156-400 New Zealand dollars per night. Take in the best with top-of-the-line hospitality, private rooms and suites with balconies and living rooms, fine dining options with live music, a spa and hot tub, a fitness center, in-room breakfast, and room service.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

The cuisine in New Zealand favors seafood, roast lamb, fish and chips, wine, and cheese. Dinner is usually the main meal of the day. When out and about, look for hokey pokey ice cream (caramelized honeycomb) or pavlova (meringue, fruit, and whipped cream).

New Zealand has many street vendors, as well as restaurants, where you can try more of their cuisine. In total, expect to pay around 75 New Zealand dollars per day for food when dining at restaurants.

The Best Ways to Get Around New Zealand

Getting to new zealand:.

Flights:  The main hubs to New Zealand are Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown. Auckland Airport is the largest international airport in New Zealand and is located about 9.5 miles from downtown.

Other major airports include Christchurch International Airport (7.5 miles from the city) and Wellington International Airport (3.5 miles from the city). Air New Zealand flies from around the world with direct flights from cities such as Vancouver, San Francisco and Hong Kong.

You can check for the best flights to New Zealand on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : Buses are a good way to get around and one of the main ways that locals travel. Tickets start at 1.57 New Zealand Dollars. If you know you’ll use the bus a lot, consider getting a bus pass, with prices based on the number of trips you take. You can also look for bus tours that travel throughout the whole of New Zealand and include meals and places to sleep.

Taxis:  Taxis are available in most cities in New Zealand and start at 3.50 New Zealand dollars in places like Auckland.

Campervans are an excellent way to get around New Zealand with several companies offering rentals and well-established campgrounds with full facilities. Read all about our experience here.

To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old and have a driver’s license. Drivers under 25 will be subject to additional fees per day. For drivers 25 and over, prices start at 70 New Zealand dollars per day. Check for prices and availability here.

Uber:  Uber is available throughout New Zealand.

When to go To New Zealand

New Zealand has a varied landscape with two distinct islands. The North Island is warmer than the South with a sub-tropical climate.

Snorkeling and swimming is more pleasant up here. But the South Island was made for adventure.

Dec-Feb  is summer in New Zealand – this is high season with the most visitors. You’ll see a lot of  campervans  on the road and campgrounds fill up quickly. March  – April –  a great time to visit at just the start of autumn. There are still warm days and crowds start to thin out. But pack layers and a jacket. You’ll start to see the fall colours too! We travelled through New Zealand all of March and days were warm. Evenings were cool, but we still managed to  snorkel,  go sailing, skydive, bungy jump…we did everything you would do in New Zealand during the summer months. June – August  is winter in New Zealand. If you are into skiing, you may want to check out New Zealand in the winter. The South Island can dip below -10 C – the North Island sees more rain in winter -Snowfalls happen in the Central Plateau on the North Island and the Southern Alps in the South. Sept- Nov  – Good shoulder season for travel as things start to warm up and crowds haven’t arrived full swing.

Where to Stay in New Zealand

Sofitel Auckland – centrally located in Auckland at Viaduct Harbour, you can’t go wrong with a Sofitel. It is close enough to amenities, but quiet enough for a retreat.

ibis Wellington:  Just a few minutes from the museum, city gallery, and library, there is plenty to do around this hotel in Wellington. Once you’re done exploring, come back to the hotel for flat-screen TVs and tea inside your room, a lobby bar, a fitness center, and a breakfast buffet. 

BreakFree on Cashel :  Just a short walk to Canterbury Museum, North Hagley Park, and Cathedral Square, stay in the heart of the central business center in Christchurch. The hotel comes with rooms with city views, family rooms with bunk beds, a restaurant and bar, room service, and an airport shuttle.

What to Pack for New Zealand

New Zealand has a  diverse landscape  with volcanoes, glaciers, breathtaking mountains, endless stretches of beaches and luscious forests. New Zealand’s climate varies depending on the area travelers intend to visit. 

The weather in New Zealand can change in an instant , so travelers should always be prepared for anything!

• Layers  – The general rule of thumb is to pack at least four layers: a base layer,  long sleeve shirts, a fleece (mid-layer) and a top layer such as a windbreaker (waterproof!). Don’t forget a warm pair of gloves, thick scarf and a hat!
• Read our  tips for layering  and check out our  ultimate list of travel gear. 
• Thermal underwear  – this is especially important if traveling to the South during the winter or hiking in the mountains.
• Sunscreen  – The depleted ozone layer over the country means that the sun is incredibly strong. Along with sunscreen, pack a pair of sunglasses and a hat.
• Rain Gear  – it tends to rain a lot in New Zealand even in the summer. However, avoid bringing along umbrellas as the rain is coupled with strong gusts of wind. Instead, invest in a good waterproof jacket that will keep you protected.
• Backpacks  – a sturdy backpack or large bag is more appropriate for adventuring as they are easier to carry and you don’t have to roll them through the sand of New Zealand’s amazing beaches.

New Zealand Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

New Zealand Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about New Zealand   click here .

29 Things to Do in Christchurch, New Zealand in 2024

23 Amazing Things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand

Where to Go Bungy Jumping in New Zealand

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Where to Go in 2024 Overview: Where to Go in 2024
• The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024
• An Insider's Guide to Paris — Luxury Hotels, Vintage Shops, and the City's Best Restaurants Included
• This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024
• 5 Coastal Towns in Alaska That Are Adorable in Any Weather
• T+L's Review of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur
• This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’
• Belmond Brought Back Its Most Thrilling Trains Through Asia – Here's What to Expect
• How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal
• Georgia May Be Getting Its First National Park Soon — and It Has More Than Just Scenic Trails
• How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Costa Rica
• How to Plan a Trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast
• This Stunning Region in Portugal Is a Wine Lover's Dream
• How to Visit Oslo, According to Someone Who Spent 6 Years in Scandinavia
• This South American City Is One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024
• The Caribbean's 'Nature Island' Has Rain Forests, Luxury Hotels, and a Rich Creole Culture
• This Midwestern Gem Is Home to Barbecue, Music, and a Flourishing Womens’ Sports Scene
• I've Lived in Las Vegas for 8 Years — Here's My Ultimate Guide to Sin City
• Australia's Newest National Park Is Home to Dramatic Scenery and the Oldest Fossils in the World
• This Might Be Japan's Most Beautiful National Park

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to New Zealand

• This California Destination Has Charming Small Towns, Incredible Wine, and a Stunning Coastline
• Fort Worth Has Great Modern Art, Cool Hotels, and a Vegan Dining Scene
• This Underrated European City Is One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024
• I Took My Kids on Spring Break to Rajasthan, India
• This Hip Eastern European City Is One of the Best Places to Travel This Year
• The Complete Guide to the Island of Hawai‘i
• Destinations
• Australia & South Pacific
• New Zealand
• Where to Go in 2024 The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024 An Insider's Guide to Paris — Luxury Hotels, Vintage Shops, and the City's Best Restaurants Included This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 5 Coastal Towns in Alaska That Are Adorable in Any Weather T+L's Review of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’ Belmond Brought Back Its Most Thrilling Trains Through Asia – Here's What to Expect How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal Georgia May Be Getting Its First National Park Soon — and It Has More Than Just Scenic Trails How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Costa Rica How to Plan a Trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast This Stunning Region in Portugal Is a Wine Lover's Dream How to Visit Oslo, According to Someone Who Spent 6 Years in Scandinavia This South American City Is One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 The Caribbean's 'Nature Island' Has Rain Forests, Luxury Hotels, and a Rich Creole Culture This Midwestern Gem Is Home to Barbecue, Music, and a Flourishing Womens’ Sports Scene I've Lived in Las Vegas for 8 Years — Here's My Ultimate Guide to Sin City Australia's Newest National Park Is Home to Dramatic Scenery and the Oldest Fossils in the World This Might Be Japan's Most Beautiful National Park How to Plan the Perfect Trip to New Zealand This California Destination Has Charming Small Towns, Incredible Wine, and a Stunning Coastline Fort Worth Has Great Modern Art, Cool Hotels, and a Vegan Dining Scene This Underrated European City Is One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 I Took My Kids on Spring Break to Rajasthan, India This Hip Eastern European City Is One of the Best Places to Travel This Year The Complete Guide to the Island of Hawai‘i CLOSE Part of Where to Go in 2024

See the best places to stay, dine, and experience the beauty of New Zealand, according to a local.

Amy Louise Bailey is a freelance content creator and media specialist. Her work has been published in Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , Elle , Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Pursuits , and Robb Report .

Bay of Islands

Christchurch, best times to visit new zealand, how to get there, transportation.

When people learn I’m from New Zealand , I often hear that it’s at the top of their bucket list — or, if they’ve been, that it’s their favorite country in the world.  I may be biased, but I am not surprised. The stunning natural beauty, thriving culinary scene, and unique outdoor activities would charm even the most seasoned traveler.

Everywhere you look, there’s a picture-perfect backdrop filled with greenery and crystal-clear waters. And although it has a lot of untouched land, it boasts the same highlights you would find in any major global city, with art galleries, shopping districts, nightlife, and luxury hotels. Plus, it’s politically stable and very safe, which are increasingly appealing traits.

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

Geographically, the country is divided into two islands with distinct characteristics: the North Island is full of beaches and is home to the main cities, and the South Island is an alpine wonderland defined by majestic mountain landscapes, rugged coasts, and world-class ski slopes. There has been a lot of development over the past few years, and travelers have more places to eat, stay, and play than ever before.  Below, see Travel + Leisure ’s essential guide to making the most of this magical South Pacific destination, according to a local.

Angelina Pilarinos/Travel + Leisure

North Island

The North Island is lined with beautiful beaches and islands surrounding the narrow coasts. It’s also where the capital, Wellington, is located, along with the country’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, Auckland , which is an essential destination on any New Zealand itinerary (and the gateway for most international flights). As Annie Dundas, the Director Destination at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, notes, Auckland is “an urban oasis — the perfect fusion of a busy, modern city that looks out to mesmerizing landscapes and islands — all within easy reach and laden with wineries and leisurely places for long lunches.” It is worth spending at least four days in Auckland, but the North Island has many unique areas to explore, and below, we’ve charted the key destinations to prioritize.

Things to Do

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is a popular day trip for locals and is accessible by boat, ferry, or helicopter from downtown Auckland. It’s filled with boutique wineries, restaurants, and beautiful beaches and is especially popular in the summer months when music festivals and jazz concerts are hosted in sprawling vineyards. There’s also a contemporary art sculpture trail, Sculpture on the Gulf , hosted each summer, enticing many Aucklanders across the harbor for a cultured day out. Pop over for the day, tour the wineries, get a scoop of ice cream at Island Gelato Company , and wander around the artisan boutiques. If you’d like to spend the night, there are high-end rentals available on Waiheke Unlimited and Vrbo , or for a hotel, go for Delamore Lodge .

Visit the Auckland Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery

For a close-up view of New Zealand’s culture and history, visit the stately Auckland Museum , where you’ll find a collection of national artifacts along with a rotation of exhibitions. It’s set at the top of the city’s main park and is within walking distance of Auckland CBD, where the Auckland Art Gallery is located. Here, you’ll find some of the country’s most valuable artworks, along with various international collections. Both are worthwhile attractions that can be ticked off in half a day.

Explore Commercial Bay and Britomart

Downtown Auckland has been transformed over the past decade and has become the city’s most vibrant shopping and dining hub. It’s bustling from day to night and is especially packed on Friday nights for after-work drinks and dinner. You can find some of the city’s best restaurants and cocktail bars within a small vicinity, and it’s a fashion mecca with storefronts from major brands and local fashion designers (be sure to check out Karen Walker , Kate Sylvester , and Zambesi ).

Courtesy of Park Hyatt Auckland

Park Hyatt Auckland

Since opening in 2020, the Park Hyatt has become the crème de la crème of the Auckland hotel scene. It has a prime location, excellent views, amenities, restaurants, and spacious rooms with freestanding bathtubs and terraces overlooking the Viaduct Harbor — ideal for room service with some atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of the best bars, restaurants, and shops, but it feels like a serene enclave where you can manage to get a good night’s sleep, despite being right by the action.

The Hotel Britomart

As the name suggests, this chic hotel is located right in the heart of Britomart, surrounded by some of Auckland’s best shopping and dining. Rooms are sleek and modern yet very small, so they are suitable for solo travelers and couples. If you’re seeking something more spacious, the suites are some of the finest in the city (with price tags to match). And the restaurant, Kingi, is also excellent. 

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbor

Located between the Viaduct and Wynyard Quarter, the Sofitel has long been a go-to for celebrities and diplomats visiting New Zealand. It boasts the high standards that you would expect from the French hotel brand, with a fine-dining restaurant, elegant interiors, and an impressive spa and wellness center. 

Restaurants

For a fun atmosphere and Italian-inspired fare, head to Bivacco in the Viaduct. The menu has sharable classics like pizza, antipasto, pasta, and oysters, and on any given day, you’ll find yourself surrounded by well-heeled locals socializing over bottles of rosé and cocktails. 

Soul is a restaurant that has stood the test of time, and for over 20 years, it has been a go-to venue for some of the city’s most stylish soirees. Like Bivacco, it’s also a lively spot in the heart of the Viaduct, where people go for the food as well as the scene. After dinner, there’s a dance floor that attracts a mature crowd, and on the menus, you’ll find fresh seafood and bistro classics alongside an extensive wine and Champagne list.

While it’s not the newest or the sceniest place, Prego has been a solid option along Ponsonby Road for years and is just as popular with families as it is for birthday celebrations and dinners preceding big nights out at the bars along the strip. Go for the pizza or the chicken saltimbocca — everything on the menu is great as are the cocktails. And, it's always a reliable destination for a good atmosphere and delicious food.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Known locally as Te Papa , the country’s largest museum is essential on any Wellington itinerary. It contains over 800,000 artworks and objects, and it has a rotation of exhibitions, including dinosaur skeletons and ancient artifacts that you would expect to find at the American Museum of Natural History. It’s an interesting experience for children and adults alike.

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

For panoramic views of the city, jump on the historic Wellington Cable Car , which boards in the heart of the Lambton Quay shopping district and travels up the hillside of Kelburn. Here you will find a scenic lookout, botanic gardens, and the Cable Car Museum . 

Wander Hannahs Laneway 

Also known as Leeds Street, Hannah’s Laneway is a foodie’s paradise, lined with street food vendors, contemporary art, and cool cafes. You can pick up a variety of distinctly "Kiwi" specialties, from black forest toast to pies and creamy hot chocolates. Just be sure to skip breakfast so you have room to sample everything.

QT Wellington

This centrally located hotel could be equated to the likes of The Standard and Edition Hotels, with quirky, ultramodern design and a lively food and beverage scene.  It’s right across from the Te Papa Museum in the center of town and is popular with both business and leisure travelers. There are 65 hotel rooms with either city or harbor views, and it also has 98 apartments. 

Wharekauhau Country Estate

Although it’s a 90-minute drive from Wellington, this luxury lodge is a popular stop on any Wellington itinerary. It’s set on a 5,000-acre estate overlooking the coast and has welcomed royals and many international diplomats visiting the capital. Everything is designed so that you don’t need to leave: food is included and sourced from the farm, it has a spa and fitness center, and a variety of outdoor activities from ATV quad biking to tennis. 

You will need to book a month in advance to secure a table at this intimate prix-fixe restaurant. The menu is seasonal, and it changes every day, so there’s always something new. A typical night might feature lamb manti, panfried snapper, and crisp meringue — delicious renditions of local New Zealand cuisine.

Located on the nightlife-centric Cuba Street, Loretta is a place to enjoy crowd-pleasing classics in a fun environment.  It’s renowned for its sourdough pizzas and vanilla cheesecakes and is a great place to go with friends before a night out or for brunch on a Sunday. 

Ortega Fish Shack

This nautical-themed restaurant serves some of the best seafood around, from Yellowtail Kingfish ceviche to smoked Moki rillettes and green-lipped mussels. It’s a charming and eclectic place that perfectly represents Wellington's hip, creative vibe. 

Sculptureum

Sculptureum is a lovely and cultured place to spend an afternoon, with six art galleries, three sculpture gardens, a vineyard, and a restaurant appropriately named Rothko. Whether you’re staying in the area or doing a day trip up from Auckland, it’s an essential for contemporary art lovers and is especially great to visit in the summer months.

Matakana Village Farmers Market

Every weekend, Matakana Village comes alive with rustic markets featuring a variety of artisan food stands and fresh local produce. You’ll find delicious local cheese, honey, baked goods, chocolate, and award-winning flat whites.  It’s set up right next to the boutiques in the charming village, where you’ll find everything from quaint homeware stores to shoe shops, and there’s also a cinema and a restaurant within the main village complex.

Omaha Beach

The Rodney District has some of the most stunning beaches on the North Island, and one of the most popular among them is Omaha — a white sand beach that attracts swimmers, surfers, and families setting up for the day. It’s only a 10-minute drive from Matakana Village, and it has ample parking, a café, a boutique with swim essentials, and a playground. For bigger waves, surfers head to Tawharanui Beach , which is also located within the Matakana region. 

Takatu Lodge

This gorgeous boutique lodge is located on a serene hilltop overlooking the Hauraki Gulf. It has only four suites with luxurious furnishings, underfloor heating, and views overlooking the gardens and the vineyards. Meals are provided in the dining spaces and tailored to guests’ preferences. Also, picnics are on offer for those wanting to set up at the nearby beaches for the day. 

Courtesy of Brick Bay

Brick Bay is a similar concept to Sculptureum, with a restaurant, wine tastings, and a contemporary sculpture trail positioned around a pond and throughout a native bush. It’s been around for a long time and is very popular with both locals and Aucklanders, so it’s worth booking in advance, even if it’s just to sample their wine varietals over a cheese platter after the lunchtime rush. 

Cruise the Islands

The Bay of Islands has 144 subtropical islands, and there are many ways to explore them, be it by chartering a yacht, going on a scheduled group boat tour, hiring a kayak, or embarking on a snorkeling expedition. You can see an abundance of enchanting sea life, too, including dolphins, penguins, and whales. 

Visit the Waitangi Treaty grounds

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is New Zealand’s most important historic site. It is where the country’s founding document was signed in 1840. Today, it contains two museums with interactive displays, guided tours to learn about the country’s history, and traditional Maori cultural performances that are staged in the meeting house. 

Kauri Cliffs

Kauri Cliffs was recently added to the Rosewood portfolio, which is a testament to its high standards. It’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic luxury lodges, with a golf course that is ranked 37th on Golf Digest ’s Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World, an excellent restaurant, and a fabulous spa nestled into a tranquil forest full of native birdlife. 

Eagle’s Nest

Positioned on a private 75-acre peninsula overlooking the Bay of Islands, Eagle’s Nest is one of New Zealand’s most luxurious boutique retreats. It is an intimate enclave, with only five villas that are beautifully designed. One thing to note is that there is no restaurant, however breakfast provisions are provided and there are on-call chefs available for private dining. 

Duke of Marlborough

The Duke of Marlborough is New Zealand’s first pub, and since opening in 1827 (before the Treaty of Waitangi was signed nearby), it has undergone various reincarnations. Visit today, and you’ll find a refined version of a classic pub with décor that feels fresh while honoring its history. Menus feature locally sourced, seasonal fare with popular items like paua risotto, clam fritters, pork belly, and of course, a solid burger.  

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

South Island

The South Island is renowned for its spectacular natural scenery from the golden beaches of the Abel Tasman to the fiords and mountains in the Southern Alps. The vibe is generally more casual, and it’s where many of the country’s best adventure activities can be experienced. In Wanaka and Queenstown , you’ll find pristine ski slopes, dramatic mountain landscapes, and an array of sprawling wineries. It’s also home to many of New Zealand’s Great Walks and multi-day hikes. There are many beautiful places to explore, and as Sarah Handley, Tourism New Zealand's general manager for the Americas and Europe, notes, “New Zealand's connection to the U.S. has never been stronger, and Americans can now fly non-stop to Christchurch, in the South Island, with United's direct service from SFO.”

Americans can now fly non-stop to Christchurch, on New Zealand's South Island, with United Airlines' direct service from San Francisco (SFO) starting Dec. 8.

Over the Top Helicopter Tour

JensenChua/Getty Images

For a true bucket list experience, take a helicopter ride and tour through the Southern Alps and the Milford Sound.  It’s the most magical way to see everything and experience areas that are usually inaccessible, like the secluded Madagascar Beach and snow-capped, sky-high peaks. The "eurocopters" are state-of-the-art, with maximum visibility from any vantage point.  They can be booked privately or as part of scheduled group tours. 

TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Renowned as "the Lady of the Lake," the Earnslaw is a 110-year-old steamboat that tours Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown down to Glenorchy. It’s one of the best ways to observe the natural grandeur of the Remarkables and Cecil Peak and is a particularly popular activity for families. The cruise itself takes 90 minutes, but there are various experiences that can be added on arrival at Walter Peak High Country Farm, including horse treks, cycling, or barbecues. 

Arrowtown is a historic gold-mining town that looks like a village out of a fairy tale. Everything has been lovingly preserved, and it is lined with quaint artisan boutiques, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, and on the way, you could stop at Millbrook Resort for a round of golf or a spa session (just outside of the main village). Be sure to stop at The Remarkable Sweet Shop for the crème brulee fudge.  

Eichardt’s Private Hotel

Eichardt’s is an iconic Queenstown establishment and one of the most beloved boutique hotels in the country. It has an exceptional cocktail bar, restaurant, and spa, along with a $20,000-per-night penthouse located above the Louis Vuitton boutique next door. The location could not be better, positioned right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the center of the action. Inside the rooms, the interiors are ultra-luxurious and suited to the alpine theme of the town — think crackling fireplaces, marble bathrooms with underfloor heating, and plush beds with fur throws. 

Matakauri Lodge

Matakauri Lodge is another property that was recently added to Rosewood’s portfolio (along with Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers in Hawkes Bay) and is a key destination on New Zealand’s luxury circuit, hosting the British royal family and many celebrities over the years. The intimate lakeside retreat has only 13 spacious accommodations, and it boasts stunning views of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu. Cocktail hour is a social affair, and the food and wine offerings are world-class.

The Carlin is new, but it’s already garnered international acclaim, winning Best New Hotel at the Boutique Hotel Awards in 2022. It’s a place that would have the "Palace" distinction if it were in France, with ultra-luxe amenities that surpass the typical five-star standard. Guests have access to private jets and Michelin-star dining, and it is home to the largest penthouse in the Southern Hemisphere.

Located just a 15-minute drive from the city center, Amisfield is the most popular winery and restaurant in the region and is an essential daytime excursion. Wine tastings are available, and there are excellent Pinot Noirs produced on site. But to make the most of it, do an al fresco lunch in the beautifully manicured courtyard and take in the views of the postcard-worthy mountains.

Botswana Butchery

This lively lakefront bistro is one to book in advance, particularly if you’re visiting on a weekend. It has a charming atmosphere and some of the best representations of hearty New Zealand cuisine sourced from the surrounding farms and waters. It also has an excellent wine list with varietals from vineyards in the area.

You will need to time your visit to Fergburger well, as the lines can often exceed an hour in the evenings, but it has the best burgers in Queenstown (and anywhere, really) and is worth factoring in. There is a long menu of options to suit everyone including vegetarian options, beef, lamb, pork, fish, chicken, and also breakfast burgers. The same operators also opened Fergbaker next door, where you can pick up a classic meat pie — both delicious options, especially on a cold and snowy day.

Blanket Bay

Glenorchy is very remote, and what to do, where to stay, and where to dine all fall under the same category if you want to do it well. The place to go? Blanket Bay, where apocalypse-weary billionaires are known to escape. It is one of the country’s finest luxury lodges and is the best way to experience all the area has to offer, with an excellent restaurant, bar, spa, wellness center, and a variety of outdoor activities, from horse riding to heliskiing and jet boating. Accommodations are split between rooms in the main house and luxuriously decorated standalone villas.

Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

Located in the Mt. Cook National Park, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve has some of the clearest and darkest skies for star-spotting. It was the first Dark Sky Reserve to be established in New Zealand and is a magical way to experience the country’s untouched natural beauty by night. 

Explore the City’s Art Galleries

Christchurch has a thriving art scene and many galleries in the central city that are worth checking out. The main ones to prioritize are the Centre of Contemporary Art (CoCa) , Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu , and the Christchurch Art Centre . 

The Mayfair

Since opening in 2022, The Mayfair has been a welcome addition to the city’s luxury hotel scene. It’s a boutique hotel with minimal, contemporary décor, and sophisticated dining options, from high tea to an all-day café and cocktail bar and bistro. The central location makes it popular for both leisure and business travelers. 

The Observatory Hotel

The Observatory is a chic, design-forward boutique hotel that also opened in Christchurch in 2022.  It has rich interiors give the sense of eternal night, with vivid colors and ambient lighting. Rooms are very photogenic, and there are multiple dining options from the Drawing Room to all-day eatery Bunsen, and more casual options within the broader complex, from food trucks to sushi and dumplings.

Inati is a stylish fine-dining establishment helmed by the former head chef of Gordon Ramsay’s The Warrington. If there’s one place to book in advance in Christchurch, this is it. The menu is filled with sharing plates and divided into earth, land, and sea categories. Guests can park up at elegant stools overlooking the open kitchen and observe their food being artfully crafted. 

If you want to experience the great outdoors (which is the primary drawcard), the best time to visit is over the summer, between December and the beginning of April. During this period, temperatures are balmy, and you’re more likely to encounter solid blocks of sunshine. It’s also when the cities come alive, with many music festivals and cultural events, and is the best time to explore the beaches, wineries, and stunning walking tracks. That said, New Zealand is a great place to visit year-round, and it is also a world-renowned ski destination with ski resorts throughout the North and South Island. If you’re looking to ski, the months to consider would be between June and October, when the fields are open. 

Fiona Goodall/Getty Images

The best way to get to New Zealand is to fly into Auckland Airport, which is the country’s primary gateway. Air New Zealand has multiple routes available, including a direct flight from New York City, which takes 17 hours but is surprisingly manageable, given it flies overnight (and the airline is renowned for its excellent cuisine and high standard overall). United Airlines also has a direct flight from San Francisco's SFO, and Qantas also has a route from New York to Auckland. 

Once you arrive at the airport, there are taxis and rideshare services available, including Uber, but given everything is quite spread out, it is definitely worth renting a car. That will allow you to easily explore all of the different areas (some of which don’t have regular public transport options available). Driving is also a great way to visit some of the more remote beaches and destinations off the beaten path. If you’re planning on staying in the city centers, there are buses available, trains (albeit with limited routes), and ferries. 

Where to Go in 2024

Related articles.

5-21 day, all-inclusive, guided adventure tours

FREE PHONE: +64 3 595 2080 +64 3 595 2080 1800 459 511 1-877-796-0416 0800 920 2011

• What Is the Best Way to Travel New Zealand?

By Claire Todd

8 minute read

Get hold of your free New Zealand Trails brochure here

Camper or campervan travel in New Zealand has always been a popular choice for visitors. The call of the open road, the freedom to explore with no agenda, and the appeal of meeting other wandering souls en route continues to fuel this ever-popular activity. As New Zealand gets more and more popular, the roads get busier and busier; and it begs the question, ‘is the van-life in New Zealand still living up to the hype?’

We constantly get asked what is the best way to travel New Zealand and at New Zealand Trails we’ve made it our life mission to come up with the very best trips possible. To us, the best way to travel New Zealand is with a local to guide you, on a route that has been carefully thought through and with like-minded people to share the experience with. While we agree that seeing New Zealand by campervan has a certain appeal, we are positive that we’ve trumped all the good bits and come up with something even better for the New Zealand of now. If you’re considering hiring a camper, we reckon you should read this first and then make up your mind.

Of course, whichever way you decide to travel, you’ll still see that New Zealand is a paradise, with beautiful scenery, a wide variety of experiences on offer and wonderful, friendly people to meet. We look forward to seeing you down here! If you're looking for a handy guide to getting the most from your hiking trip check out our blog here ! 

• Women Travelling Together - New Zealand Group Tours For Women

• Travel Solo, Not Alone: Group Tours for Solo Travellers

• The Rise of Solo Travel in New Zealand: Taking the Scenic Route on Your Own

Let’s talk – we’d love to hear what you think. Pop your details in below and have your say.

I am definitely going for the trail guide!! When I am ready and all the restrictions are burried, that's my moment to execute my plan with my family.Fantastic recommendation!!

No one has commented on this page yet.

RSS feed for comments on this page | RSS feed for all comments

Explore New Zealand

• Best Day Hikes in Fiordland National Park
• Hiking the Milford Track in October
• Hiking the Kepler Track in October
• Hiking the Kepler Track in Winter | Weather Guide
• Hiking the Kepler Track in February
• Hiking the Kepler Track in January
• Hiking the Kepler Track in December
• Heaphy Track Weather Guide for Hikers
• Lake Waikaremoana Track
• Milford Track Weather Guide for Hikers
• The Routeburn Track Weather Guide for Hikers
• Kepler Track Weather Guide For Hikers
• 13 Best Multi-Day Hikes in the South Island, New Zealand
• Exploring New Zealand’s Siberia Valley
• Day Walks on New Zealand's Great Walks - South Island
• Hiking the Rakiura Track, Stewart Island's Great Walk
• The Kepler Track | A Complete Guide
• Hiking in New Zealand for Your Bucket List
• 12 Best New Zealand Day Hikes
• Hiking the Milford Track in New Zealand
• The Top 10 Lesser Known Walks of New Zealand
• Great Walks of New Zealand
• Luxury Hiking in New Zealand
• Best Walks in New Zealand
• Routeburn & Milford Track | Best Day Hikes
• Conservation & Regeneration At New Zealand Trails
• The Perfect Trip to Replace Your Cancelled REI New Zealand Adventure
• Keeping You Safe in the Post Covid-19 Era
• New Zealand Accommodation on our Trips
• The Finer Touches at New Zealand Trails
• Kiwi Hospitality and the New Zealand Way
• The Qualmark Gold Standard Award
• The Best New Zealand Small Group Tours
• 3 Dream Places to Stay in New Zealand
• Our Best Photos of New Zealand from 2017-2018
• Hiking in New Zealand 2016 Season
• Why Join a Guided New Zealand Hiking Tour?
• Exploring New Zealand's World Heritage Sites
• New Zealand Cuisine | Food in New Zealand
• A Guide to New Zealand Wine Regions
• Guide to New Zealand’s Coffee Culture
• New Zealand - The Perfect Place For Solo Travel
• Why Autumn is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand
• Travel Tips for Hiking in New Zealand
• New Zealand's Best Waterfalls
• The Best Places to Visit on New Zealand's West Coast
• Top 10 New Zealand Adventures
• Hiking the Kepler Track in November
• The Best South Island New Zealand Adventures
• Top Tips for your Free Day
• The ultimate New Zealand luxury tour - Part 2
• The ultimate New Zealand luxury tour - Part 1
• Why do a New Zealand guided hiking tour?
• Our New Zealand Hiking Guides
• 10 Best Places to Kayak in New Zealand
• Riding the Queenstown Trail
• Sounds of New Zealand - New Zealand Music
• 9 Must-See New Zealand Movies
• 10 of the Best New Zealand Books
• 13 Things You May Not Know About New Zealand
• How to book your New Zealand trip
• 10 South Island Secrets
• Why Do I Need New Zealand Travel Insurance?
• New Zealand Solo Travel and Hiking
• Australia vs New Zealand | Which is Best?
• What to Pack for New Zealand
• World Heritage Walking Tour - Is It For Me?
• Flights to New Zealand: How to Get Here
• When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?
• Why October is a great time to visit Stewart Island
• Hiking the Routeburn Track in Winter
• Hiking the Milford Track in Winter
• Hiking the Milford Track in December
• Hiking the Milford Track in November
• Hiking the Kepler Track in March
• Best places to visit during spring in New Zealand
• What’s the Best Time for Hiking in New Zealand?
• Spring in New Zealand – A Special Time of Year!
• New Zealand Seasons: Which One Suits You Best?
• 5 Reasons to Visit During Spring in New Zealand
• Why You’ll Love Spring Hiking in New Zealand
• A Journey Through Time: The Whanganui River Journey
• Travel like it used to be | 24 hours on Stewart Island
• The Most Beautiful Lakes In The South Island
• Arrowtown - A Few Hours To Explore
• Top 15 things to do in Queenstown
• Top 5 things to do on Stewart Island
• The Best Beaches in New Zealand
• 10 of New Zealand's Best Backroad Experiences
• New Zealand Bucket List... with a Twist
• New Zealand Tours | Lord of the Rings
• New Zealand National Parks | A Complete Guide
• New Zealand Mountains
• North vs South Island | Which To Visit?
• Hike and Kayak Abel Tasman National Park
• Queenstown | Adventure Capital of the World
• 5 Reasons Milford Sound is Best in the Rain
• 24 Hours in Queenstown
• Walking the Hollyford Track
• Hiking the Routeburn Track
• The Best Glacier Hiking in New Zealand
• Castle Hill and Arthurs Pass Hiking
• New Zealand Penguins
• New Zealand Birds - NZ's Unique Parrots
• Conservation in New Zealand – Protecting New Zealand’s Kiwi Bird
• New Zealand Nature: What to Expect
• Kiwi Bird | The New Zealand National Bird
• New Zealand Wildlife | Our Top 14 NZ Animals
• Top 5 New Zealand Hiking Destinations
• Best Autumn Hikes in New Zealand
• Hiking the Routeburn Track in October
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking in New Zealand
• Top 10 Tips to Keep You Safe on the Trails
• Keep Safe with Mountain Safety Council
• The Ultimate New Zealand Packing List
• Hiking New Zealand Guide
• Hiking Preparation - 5 Tips To Get Ready
• How to Use Trekking Poles Video
• How to Choose Hiking Boots Video
• What to Wear Hiking in New Zealand Video
• The Best Time to Hike the Milford Track
• 10 of New Zealand's Favourite Sports
• The Best Spots for Stargazing in New Zealand
• Top 50 Best Things To Do In New Zealand
• Scenic Flight into the NZ Wilderness
• Nile River Glow Worm Caves & Punakaiki
• Visiting Doubtful Sound
• Geothermal New Zealand | Rotorua
• New Zealand Redwoods Forest
• Waitomo Caves
• Exploring Cathedral Cove
• Huka Falls & Lake Taupo
• Exploring the Coromandel Coast
• Hiking Mt Crichton Loop Track
• Things to do in Christchurch
• The Ultimate Guide to the Routeburn Track
• Fiordland National Park
• Franz Josef Glacier
• Queen Charlotte Sound & Marlborough Wineries
• Kaikoura Peninsula
• Ben Lomond | Queenstown’s best day hike
• Mount Aspiring National Park
• Lake Tekapo & Mount John
• Paparoa National Park
• Okarito | A Complete Guide
• Arthur's Pass New Zealand
• Tongariro Crossing
• Guide to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Milford Sound
• Mou Waho Island | Wanaka

Search Articles

Get our free brochure.

• facebook-official
• youtube-play
• pinterest-circled

6 Cheapest Ways to Travel Around New Zealand 😉 [2024]

Support nz pocket guide and get our huge ebook collection to access our tips on the go, the cheapest and most economical transport to travel around new zealand.

New Zealand is pretty easy to get around despite its challenging terrain of lakes, mountains and rivers. The roads are where it’s at, so find the cheapest ways to travel around New Zealand in this guide. We compare the estimated prices of getting around New Zealand, as well as share a few tips.

You can find more tips in The Travel Guide to New Zealand on a Budget and  31 Tips for Travelling in New Zealand .

1. National Coaches (InterCity)

By far the cheapest way to travel around New Zealand, the national bus service is run by InterCity . The coach service has the largest number of stops in New Zealand at 600 and is worth considering if you truly want to create a personalised itinerary on the cheap.

There are three main ways to pay for InterCity buses:

One-Way Tickets

You can pay for each individual route on the InterCity bus. Approximate route prices are as follows:

• Auckland to Wellington – NZ$55-$70 advanced booking, NZ$60-$80 last-minute
• Auckland to Taupo – NZ$35-$55
• Auckland to Bay of Islands – NZ$30-$45
• Picton to Christchurch – NZ$45-$55 advanced, NZ$70-$85 last-minute
• Christchurch to Queenstown – NZ$50-$60 advanced, NZ$90-$115 last-minute
• Franz Josef to Wanaka – NZ$55-$65.

The InterCity FlexiPass is a way to pay for your bus trips in advance. Purchase a number of hours then spend those hours on the bus routes you want. You can always add on hours to your pass later if needed. It’s also worth mentioning that hours can be spent on the ferry between the North Island and South Island and some tours. The approximate prices for hours are as follows:

• 10 hours – NZ$100
• 40 hours – NZ$330
• 80 hours – NZ$560

InterCity has special maps to show how many hours it takes to get between destinations. Note that it might not be the literal hours it takes.

As an example, it takes just under 10 hours to do a Bay of Islands trip from Auckland and back or to travel directly from Auckland to Wellington. On the South Island, it takes approximately 11 hours to travel from Picton to Queenstown directly.

Finally, you can purchase tickets for structured routes around New Zealand, called the InterCity TravelPass . The benefit of these is that there’s less planning involved for the traveller. Plus, many of their routes include tours. The approximate prices for TravelPass’ are:

• Auckland to Bay of Islands return, inc. cruise – NZ$125
• Loop of South Island inc. cruise – NZ$550

More on How InterCity Works

Learn more about the difference between the InterCity bus passes in our complete guide, InterCity Bus Passes: Which is the Best Bus Pass for New Zealand?  Plus, bookmark Travel by Bus in New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide for even more tips.

2. Backpacker Bus Tours

Offering more than just a bus service, backpacker bus tours are tours on set routes around New Zealand. You’ll have a bus driver who is also your travel guide, stopping at scenic stops and short walks on your journey. While hop-on-hop-off bus tours have drivers who also act as your travel agent, booking accommodation and activities on your behalf, fully-guided bus tours include all accommodation, some activities and some meals.

The Cost of Backpacker Bus Tours

While bus tour companies have tours that last as little as a weekend, the best deals are the tours that last 10 days or longer. For comparison, here are the approximate prices for 10-day passes on some of New Zealand’s most popular backpacker bus tours:

• Kiwi Experience – NZ$1,600
• Stray Travel – NZ$3,500
• Backyard Roadies – NZ$2,900 (inc. accommodation, some meals and some activities)
• Haka Tours – NZ$3,900 (inc. accommodation, some meals and some activities)
• G Adventures – NZ$3,900 (inc. accommodation, some meals and some activities)

Get a Price per Day of Travel

Another way to compare the price of bus tours is to work out how much the tour costs per day. To do that, find out the “minimum days of travel” of a pass that is stated on the brochure or on the website. Then divide the price of a pass by its minimum day of travel. You will get a price per day of travel.

For that price, remember you may get some of these things included: transportation + many stops along the way + some activities + commentary + some meals + all accommodation.

Remember that the hop-on hop-off buses (Kiwi Experience & Stray) don’t have all of these inclusions. Check out How to Budget for a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour of New Zealand for more advice on the subject.

More Money Saving Tips for Backpacker Bus Tours

For tips on saving money on any kind of backpacker bus tour, check out the 5 Tips to Save Money on a Bus Tour in New Zealand . And don’t forget to compare all of your backpacker bus tour options with  The 10 Best Backpacker Bus Tours in New Zealand .

3. Car Rental

Be completely in control of your own road trip around New Zealand by renting a car. Car rental prices fluctuate even more than bus tour prices, so budgeting for a road trip with a car rental can be a little trickier. Nevertheless, you’ll find some of the cheapest rentals in New Zealand at the following prices:

• In summer (December to March) – NZ$50/day (NZ$350/week) with included insurance or NZ$70/day (NZ$490/week) with add-on insurance
• In spring/autumn (April, May, September & October) – NZ$40/day (NZ$280/week) with included insurance or NZ$60/day (NZ$420) with add-on insurance
• In winter (June to August) – NZ$25/day (NZ$175/week) with included insurance or NZ$45/day (NZ$315/week) with add-on insurance.

Additional costs, such as fuel and one-way fees may need to be taken into consideration:

• Fuel (petrol) per litre – NZ$2+ (NZ$7.57+ per gallon)
• One-way fee – Up to NZ$250
• Additional driver – NZ$10/day
• Young driver’s fee – NZ$10/day (see  Age Restrictions for Renting a Vehicle in New Zealand: FULL Guide )
• Baby/child seat – NZ$45-$50

More on Budgeting for Car Rental in New Zealand

Learn more about budgeting for a road trip using  How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car or Campervan in New Zealand? Plus, check out our full guide to Renting a Car in New Zealand: The Essential Guide .

4. Campervan Rental

Campervan rental is something that many travellers consider for travelling around New Zealand. Although it’s not as cheap as the transport methods mentioned above, it can still be one of the cheapest ways to travel around New Zealand if choosing budget campervan rentals . Although a campervan is also your accommodation, you will find that you still need to pay for holiday parks and campsites even if you’re freedom camping a few times. Find out more about the cost of a campervan holiday compared to renting a car in our guide, Campervan Rental Vs. Car Rental + Stay in Hotel, Hostel or Airbnb in New Zealand or watch our video:

You’ll find some of the cheapest campervan rentals in New Zealand at the following prices:

• In summer (December to March) – NZ$220/day (NZ$1,540/week) with included insurance or NZ$245/day (NZ$1,715/week) with add-on insurance
• In spring/autumn (April, May, September & October) – NZ$160/day (NZ$1,120/week) with included insurance or NZ$185/day (NZ$1,295/week) with add-on insurance
• In winter (June to August) – NZ$80/day (NZ$560/week) with included insurance or NZ$105/day (NZ$735/week) with add-on insurance.
• One-way fees – Up to NZ$250

More on Budgeting for Campervan Rental in New Zealand

Learn more about budgeting for a road trip using  How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car or Campervan in New Zealand? Plus, for more advice on campervan rental, see The Essential Guide to Renting a Campervan in New Zealand .

5. Hitchhiking

The cheapest way to travel around New Zealand is to hitchhike because it’s free ! But should you hitchhike?

Hitchhiking is legal in New Zealand and plenty of people do it. It can be a great way to travel if you’re not on a tight schedule and you’re happy to “go with the flow”. Of course, there’s always an element of risk, so check out our safety tips in our Hitchhiking in New Zealand: FULL Guide . There are also other pros and cons to consider for hitchhiking.

The Pros of Hitchhiking

• Meet some locals  and interesting people
• It’s more  eco-friendly  as you use less gas than you would in your own vehicle
• It’s adventurous ; who knows who’ll you’ll meet and what you’ll discover!

The Cons of Hitchhiking

• It can be  time-consuming  trying to get a lift
• You might have to  hitch a couple of times  to cover  long distances
• There is an  element of risk
• You  can’t spontaneously stop  to take photos.

Again, check out out our Hitchhiking in New Zealand: FULL Guide for a full guide on how to hitchhike.

6. Car Sharing

The final cheapest way to travel around New Zealand is carpooling, also known as car sharing or ride sharing. This is usually a prearranged way for travellers and locals to get together and share the costs of fuel, whether it’s for short commutes to work or for long trips across New Zealand.

The cost of car sharing is usually the cost of fuel for the journey split by how many people are in the vehicle, so it could range from NZ$5 per person for short journeys to NZ$20 per person for a couple of hours’ journey to NZ$50 per person for long missions; just as an example.

While it can be pretty challenging to plan an entire journey around New Zealand using carpooling, you can certainly arrange something for a few portions of your trip, whether you’re a car owner or a passenger.

Get all our advice on how to car share with A Guide to Carpooling, Car Sharing & Ride Sharing in New Zealand .

New Zealand Budget Itineraries

Now that you’ve found the cheapest ways to travel around New Zealand, do you need some road trip ideas? Check out the following itineraries for the best road trip routes:

• North Island Budget Itinerary: One Week
• South Island Budget Itinerary: One Week
• South Island Campervan Itinerary: 10 Days
• North Island Budget Itinerary: Two Weeks
• South Island Budget Itinerary: Two Weeks
• New Zealand Budget Itinerary: Two Weeks
• New Zealand Budget Itinerary: Three Weeks
• New Zealand Budget Itinerary: One Month .

More About the Cheapest Ways to Travel Around New Zealand

That’s it for our guide on the cheapest ways to travel around New Zealand. Save more money with these tips:

• The Travel Guide to New Zealand on a Budget
• How to Save Money on Accommodation When Travelling New Zealand
• NZ Travel Budget : How Much Does a Trip to New Zealand Cost?

Finally, don’t forget to compare the cheapest ways to travel around New Zealand with the 10 Best Ways to Travel Around New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

Was this article useful?

Related posts, driving in new zealand: everything you need to know 🚙, 10 best ways to travel around new zealand 🚙🚍 [2024], the new zealand travelling & driving times you need to know, booking transport in new zealand: what you need to know, new zealand scenic drives: the best north island scenic routes 🗺️, what you need to know about toll roads in new zealand, recommended for you, new zealand budget & backpacking itinerary: 1 month / 4 weeks / 30 days, the best new zealand car & campervan rentals for ages 18 to 25, the best affordable motorhome & campervan rentals in new zealand, destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

Welcome/Kia Ora By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and terms of use within it which includes sponsored posts and affiliate links.

Connect with us

Welcome/Kia Ora! By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of use within it.

© 2024 NZ Pocket Guide. Contact – Disclaimer – About Us – Our Standards

• Getting around New Zealand: Transportation Tips

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• Australasia
• New Zealand
• getting-around
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Robert Digney

The trip was fantastic. Unparalleled Journeys was on point the whole way. The AXUS app was very useful for itinerary updates and communications with your t...

New Zealand is a relatively small country and getting around is easy, with some form of public transport going to many destinations, though sometimes limited to one service per day. There are still some places that are hard to access, yet all of these can be reached with will, flexibility and a little ingenuity.

Campervan rental

By motorcycle, backpacker buses, travel ideas for new zealand, created by local experts.

From North to South - Auckland to Christchurch Self Drive

Explore both the North and the South Island in this compact itinerary. Your own rental car allows you the freedom to go at your own pace and scenic rail journeys break up the driving times. Explore glaciers and cities, thermal springs and panoramic hiking trails.

Discover the South Island: a self drive trip from Christchurch and back

The larger of the two major island in New Zealand, South Island is best to be explored at your own pace in a rental car. From massive mountains to beaches, panoramic waterfalls to challenging hiking trails, this itinerary shows you the best of South Island.

North Island: A self drive trip from Auckland

Discover the beauty of North Island on a roundtrip from Auckland in your own vehicle. Visit thermal springs, enjoy delicious wine tastings, and explore remote beaches and hiking trails. North Island has plenty to offer travelers and a rental car makes for the perfect discovery.

Internal flights are reasonably priced if booked well in advance, but you’ll appreciate the scenery better by travelling at ground level. The cheapest and easiest, though slowest, way to get around is by bus (coaches or shuttle buses). The rail service , by contrast, is limited and expensive.

Rental cars and campervans, particularly the little ones (see Buying a used vehicle), can be remarkably good value for two or more people, but if you are staying in the country for more than a couple of months, it’s more economical to buy a vehicle. New Zealand’s green countryside encourages cyclists , but even the keenest vary their transport options.

Competition on the ferries connecting the North and South islands means passenger fares are good value, though transporting vehicles is pricey. Planes and boats give limited access to offshore islands and the parts of the mainland that remain stubbornly impenetrable by road, though more specialist tours make getting into the wilds easier.

The frequency of long-distance bus, train and plane services is listed, where relevant, in each chapter in “Arrival and Departure”, while local buses and trains, again where relevant, appear in “Getting Around”.

Many visitors fly into Auckland at the beginning of their trip and out from Christchurch at the end, so don’t touch domestic flights , but those with a tight timetable wanting to hit a few key sights in a short time might be tempted by reasonable-value internal fares.

The biggest domestic operator is Air New Zealand ( w airnewzealand.com ), serving all the main centres and numerous minor ones (25 destinations in all). The main competition is from Jetstar ( w jetstar.com ), which serves Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, Rotorua and Queenstown. Air New Zealand runs single-class planes with fares that come in three levels, offering lower fares for decreased flexibility: there are fewer low-cost fares at popular times. Jetstar has a similar system. For example, a one-way standard flight between Auckland and Christchurch is about $399, a Flexi Plus around $289, a Smart Saver as little as $139 and a seat only (no hold baggage) $89. Other flights you might take are scenic jaunts from Auckland to Great Barrier Island, the hop over Cook Strait, or the short trip from Invercargill to Stewart Island.

Air New Zealand t0 800 737 000, w airnewzealand.co.nz .

Great Barrier Airlines & Air Coromandel t0 800 900 600, w greatbarrierairlines.co.nz . Flights between Auckland, Coromandel and Great Barrier Island.

Fly My Sky t0 800 222 123, w flymysky.co.nz . Flights between Auckland and Great Barrier Island.

Jetstar t0 800 800 995, w jetstar.com/nz .

Soundsair t0 800 505 005, w soundsair.com . Small planes across Cook Strait.

Stewart Island Flights t0 3 218 9129, w stewartislandflights.com . Scheduled services between Invercargill and Stewart Island.

You can get most places on long-distance buses (“coaches”) and smaller shuttle buses , which essentially offer the same service but are more likely to drop you off and pick up at hotels, hostels and the like. Services are generally reliable and reasonably comfortable, and competition keeps prices competitive. The larger buses are usually air-conditioned, and some have toilets, though all services stop every couple of hours, at wayside tearooms and points of interest along the way. Most of your fellow passengers are likely to be visitors to New Zealand so drivers often give a commentary, the quality of which varies.

InterCity and Newmans

The biggest operator, InterCity , runs high-quality full-size buses all over the country. They operate closely with Newmans , who pitch themselves as slightly more luxurious and target sightseeing excursions. In practice, the two companies share a timetable and InterCity passes can often be used on Newmans buses: when we refer to InterCity we are generally referring to services run collectively by InterCity and Newmans.

As an example, a standard one-way fare on the North Island, Auckland to Rotorua, is $50, while on the South Island, Christchurch to Queenstown, it’s $85.

Prices often plummet during off-peak periods and a range of discounted fares is available, with an advance-purchase Saver fare yielding a 25-percent discount and a Super Saver 50 percent. Extreme Saver and Web Saver fares are also available: book early for the best prices. YHA, VIP and BBH cardholders get fifteen-percent discounts off Standard rates but you’ll find cheaper deals by chasing down the various Saver fares.

InterCity also offers numerous fixed-route passes such as the Auckland, Bay of Islands Pass, including Cape Reinga ($209; backpacker $179); Auckland, Rotorua, Napier via Taupo, Wellington and back (Maui’s Catch: $215; backpacker $195); Nelson to Queenstown via the west coast ($159; backpacker $145); and various all-New Zealand experiences (from Kia Ora: $645; backpacker $579), with ever increasing fares.

Other buses

A host of bus and shuttle bus companies compete directly with InterCity/Newmans on the main routes and fill in the gaps around the country, often linking with the major operators, to take you off the beaten track. Generally they cost less (sometimes appreciably) and can be more obliging when it comes to drop-offs and pick-ups, though seldom as comfortable over distance. We’ve listed a number of the operators below, but there are many more mentioned in the appropriate sections of this guide.

Official (i-SITE) visitor centres carry timetables of bus and shuttle companies operating in their area, so you can compare frequencies and prices. Fare structures are generally straightforward, with fixed prices and no complicated discounts. Auckland to Rotorua, on the North Island, costs about $34, while on the South Island, Christchurch to Queenstown will be roughly $45.

Bus companies

Atomic Shuttles t0 3 349 0697, w atomictravel.co.nz . Major long-distance bus operator in the South Island.

InterCity & Newmans Auckland call centre t0 9 583 5780, w intercitycoach.co.nz & w newmanscoach.co.nz . Long-distance buses nationwide.

NakedBus t0 900 62533 (premium rate), w nakedbus.com. Cheap, frill-free trips on both islands.

Northliner Express t0 9 583 5780, w northliner.co.nz . Bus travel around Northland, owned by InterCity.

Southern Link t0 508 458 835, w southernlinkcoaches.co.nz. Routes all over the South Island.

Not much is left of New Zealand’s passenger train service besides commuter services in Wellington and Auckland and a few inter-city trains. The long-distance services that exist are scenic runs, primarily used by tourists; trains are so slow that they have ceased to be practical transport for New Zealanders. Minimal investment in infrastructure and rolling stock is beginning to have an effect on standards, but railway travel remains a pleasant experience.

Trains have reclining seats, buffet cars with reasonable food, beer, panoramic windows, and occasionally a glass-backed observation carriage. Tickets guarantee a seat: passengers check in on the platform before boarding and bags are carried in a luggage van.

Long-distance trains are all run by Tranz Scenic ( t0 4 495 0775 & t0 800 872 467, w tranzscenic.co.nz ), which operates three passenger routes. The longest is the Overlander between Auckland and Wellington , past the volcanic peaks of the Tongariro National Park. Interesting stops along the way include Te Awamutu, Te Kuiti (where the train is met by a shuttle bus to Waitomo Caves) and National Park (with access to Mount Ruapehu and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing). The service leaves both Auckland and Wellington daily around 7.35am and reaches its destination around 7.20pm.

In the South Island, the TranzCoastal runs between Christchurch and Picton , a pretty run sometimes hugging the coast. It leaves Christchurch at 7am for the run up through Kaikoura (9.54am) and Blenheim (11.33pm) to Picton (12.13pm). It then returns from Picton (1pm) through Blenheim (1.33pm) and Kaikoura (3.28pm) to Christchurch (6.21pm).

The finest rail journey in New Zealand is the TranzAlpine between Christchurch and Greymouth on the West Coast – it is covered in detail on For more information, see Orana Wildlife Park.

Fares are higher than the comparable bus tickets, but with discounts and the use of a travel pass, travelling is still reasonably good value. Most people get the standard or Flexi fare , which gives a discount in return for advance booking, limited availability and only a fifty-percent refund if cancelled after the departure time. As an example, a standard, one-way ticket from Auckland to Wellington is about $129, from Christchurch to Greymouth around $185. Seniors (60-plus) can get a thirty-percent discount on standard fares, though most folk do better by going for a Scenic Rail Pass. Blind and some disabled travellers are entitled to a forty-percent discount on the standard fare.

Apart from a couple of short-run steam trains, the only other passenger trains are along the Taieri Gorge Railway between Dunedin and Middlemarch, again run almost entirely for the benefit of tourists and an extremely beautiful scenic route.

For maximum flexibility, it’s hard to beat driving around New Zealand: you’ll be able to get to places beyond the reach of public transport and to set your own timetable. With the freedom to camp or stay in cheaper places away from town centres this can be a very economical option for two or more people.

In order to drive in New Zealand you need a valid licence from your home country or an International Driver’s Licence valid for up to a year in New Zealand and you must always carry the licence when driving.

In New Zealand you drive on the left and will find road rules similar to those in the UK, Australia and the US. All occupants must wear seatbelts and drivers must park in the same direction as that in which they are travelling.

The speed limit for the open road is 100kmph, reduced to 70kmph or 50kmph in built-up areas. Speeding fines start at $30 and rapidly increase as the degree of transgression increases. Some drivers flash their headlights at oncoming cars to warn of lurking police patrols, but there are also hidden cameras on the roads. Drink driving has traditionally been a problem in New Zealand: as part of a campaign to cut the death toll, random breath tests exist and offenders are dealt with severely.

Road conditions are generally good and traffic is relatively light except around Auckland and Wellington in the rush hour. Most roads are sealed (paved), although a few have a metalled surface, composed of an aggregate of loose chippings. Clearly marked on most maps, these are slower to drive along, prone to washouts and landslides after heavy rain, and demand considerably more care and attention from the driver. Some rental companies prohibit the use of their cars on the worst metalled roads – typically those at Skippers Canyon and around the northern tip of Coromandel Peninsula. Always check conditions locally before setting off on these routes.

Other hazards include one-lane bridges: a sign before the bridge will indicate who has right of way, and on longer examples there’ll be a passing place halfway across.

Unleaded and super unleaded petrol and diesel are available in New Zealand, and in larger towns petrol stations are open 24hr. In smaller towns, they may close after 8pm, so be sure to fill up for long evening or night journeys.

If you’re driving your own vehicle, check if the New Zealand Automobile Association ( w aa.co.nz ) has reciprocal rights with motoring organizations from your country to see if you qualify for their cover; otherwise, you can join as an overseas visitor. Apart from a free 24hr emergency breakdown service ( t0 800 500 222) – excluding vehicles bogged on beaches – membership entitles you to free maps, accommodation guides and legal assistance, discounts on some rental cars and accommodation, plus access to insurance and pre-purchase vehicle inspection services.

Visitors driving in New Zealand typically pick up a car in Auckland, tour the North Island to Wellington where they leave the first vehicle, cross Cook Strait, pick up a second car in Picton, then drive around the South Island dropping off the car in Christchurch. The whole thing can be done in reverse, and may work out cheaper, or you can stick with the same car across Cook Strait, which with domestic companies doesn’t entail a big price hike.

You’ll see rental deals for under $37 a day, though only for older, small cars rented for over a month in winter (June–Aug). Demand is high over the main summer season and prices rise accordingly.

Most of the major international companies are represented and offer good deals for virtually new cars. Domestic firms offer cheaper rates partly by minimizing overheads and offering older (but perfectly serviceable) vehicles. You may find even cheaper deals with cut-rate local companies, which are fine for short stints, though for general touring domestic nationwide companies are the best bet. Their infrastructure helps when it comes to crossing between the North and South islands (see The Dowse Art Museum) and they typically offer free breakdown assistance.

In peak season it usually pays to have a car booked in advance . At quieter times you can often pick up something cheaper once you arrive; and in winter (except in ski areas) you can almost name your price. Provided your rental period is four days or more the deal will be for unlimited kilometres . The rates quoted below are for summer season assuming a two-week rental period, but don’t be afraid to haggle at any time.

As a general rule, Ace, Apex, Omega and Pegasus offer reasonably new cars at moderate prices, while the rest of the companies listed below try desperately to undercut each other and offer low prices .

Based on a two-week rental in summer, for two people, a small car (1.3–1.8 litre) might cost $45–70 a day from the majors and $37–60 from domestic national firms. A medium-sized car (2–3 litre) might cost $65–90 from the majors and $35–80 from domestic national companies. Unless you’re here in winter and want to get up to the ski-fields without tyre chains you don’t really need a 4WD , which generally cost $70–130 a day; you’ll be better off renting one for short trips in specific areas.

If you are renting for several weeks, there is often no drop-off fee for leaving the vehicle somewhere other than where you picked it up. For shorter rental periods you may be charged $170–300, though if you’re travelling south to north, you may be able to sweet-talk your way out of drop-off charges. At different times in the season Wellington, Picton, Christchurch and Queenstown have a glut of cars that are needed elsewhere, and companies will offer relocation deals . Look at hostel notice boards or call the firms listed below. Some companies want quick delivery, while others will allow you to spend a few more days en route for a reduced rental rate.

You must have a full, clean driver’s licence and be over 21; drivers under 25 often pay more for insurance. In most cases insurance is included in the quoted cost but you are liable for any windscreen damage and the first $1000 of any damage. With some of the cheaper companies this excess can be as much as $3000 if the accident is your fault. This can usually be reduced to $250 or zero by paying an additional $10–20 a day Collision Damage Waiver. Usually before giving you a car rental companies take a credit-card imprint or a cash bond from you for $1500. If you have an accident, the bond is used to pay for any damage: in some cases you can pay anything up to the value of the bond; in others you pay the entire bond no matter how slight the damage. Read the small print, look around the car for any visible defects , so you won’t end up being charged for someone else’s mistakes, and check whether there are any restrictions on driving along certain roads.

Domestic car-rental agencies

A2B Rentals t0 800 545 000, w a2brentals.co.nz .

Ace Rental Cars t0 800 502 277, w acerentalcars.co.nz .

Apex t0 800 939 597, w apexrentals.co.nz .

Bargain Rental Cars t0 800 001 122, w bargainrentalcars.co.nz .

Jucy t0 800 399 736, w jucy.co.nz .

Omega t0 800 112 2333, w omegarentalcars.com .

Pegasus t0 800 803 580, w rentalcars.co.nz .

Throughout the summer, roads are clogged with campervans , almost all driven by foreign visitors who rent them for a few weeks and drive around the country staying in campsites and freedom camping. A small campervan is generally suitable for two adults and a couple of kids and comes with a fold-down bed and compact kitchen. Larger models sleep four or more and often have a shower and toilet.

Medium campervan rentals (based on a 3-week rental) average about $200–330 a day during the high season (Dec–Feb), dropping a little for a couple of months either side and plummeting to around $160 in winter with the two biggest rental firms, Maui and Britz (effectively the same company). A few smaller firms (listed below) offer cheaper rates, saving 20–30 percent.

Small vans are often cramped and aimed at backpackers prepared to sacrifice comfort to save money. These typically cost $80–95 a day during summer, $75–85 in the shoulder season and $60–70 in the depths of winter. The current trend is for wildly painted vans, often with arcane, quirky or downright offensive comments graffitied on them: witness Escape Rentals and Wicked Campers. Other good bets are the distinctive orange Spaceships that have been imaginatively converted to suit two adults. For an affordable and slightly offbeat experience go for a restored, classic VW campervan (possibly with a pop-top), from Auckland-based Kiwi Kombis, who charge $140–210 a day, depending on dates and van.

For all campervans there’s usually a minimum rental period of 5–7 days, but you get unlimited kilometres, a kitchen kit and perhaps airport transfer. Insurance is often included but you may be liable for the first $2000–7500 and you should seriously consider paying extra fees to get this liability reduced. Most companies have a supply of tents, camping kits, outdoor chairs and tables that can be rented for a few dollars.

No special licence is required to drive a campervan, but some caution is needed, especially in high winds and when climbing hills and going around tight corners.

Campervan rentals: medium to large

Adventure t0 800 123 555, w nzmotorhomes.co.nz .

Backpacker Campervans t 800 422 267, w backpackercampervans.com .

Britz t0 800 887 701, w britz.com .

Eurocampers t0 800 489 226, w eurocamper.co.nz .

Freedom Campers t0 800 325 939, w freedomcampers.co.nz.

Kea Campers t0 800 520 052, w keacampers.com .

Maui t0 800 651 080, w maui.co.nz .

Small vans and conversions

Backpackers Transport t0 800 226 769, w backpackernz.co.nz .

Escape t0 800 216 171, w escaperentals.co.nz.

Kiwi Kombis t0 9 533 9335, w kiwikombis.com .

Spaceships t0 800 772 237, w spaceshipsrentals.co.nz .

Wicked Campers t0 800 246 870, w wickedcampers.co.nz .

Buying a used vehicle

Buying a used vehicle can be cost-effective if you are staying in the country for more than a couple of months. Reselling can recoup enough of the price to make it cheaper than using public transport or renting. If you buy cheap there’s also a greater risk of breakdowns and expensive repairs. The majority of people buy cars in Auckland and then try to sell them in Christchurch, so there’s something to be said for buying in Christchurch where you’ll often have more choice and a better bargaining position.

Some of the best deals are found on backpacker hostel notice boards where older cars and vans are typically offered for $500–5000. Realistically you can expect to pay upwards of $3000 for something half-decent. It may not look pretty and with a private sale there’s no guarantee the vehicle will make yet another trip around the country, but you might get an added bonus like camping gear thrown in with the car (or offered at a snip).

For a little more peace of mind, buy from a dealership . There are plenty all over the country, especially in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. Prices begin at around $5000 and some yards offer a buy-back service , usually paying about fifty percent of the purchase price. If you’re confident of your ability to spot a lemon, you can try to pick up a cheap car at an auction ; they’re held weekly in Auckland and Christchurch and are advertised in the local press. Be aware that you’ll usually be liable for the buyer’s premium of ten percent over your bid.

Before you commit yourself, consult the vehicle ownership section of the NZ Transport Agency website ( w nzta.govt.nz ), which has good advice on buying and the pitfalls. The Buying a used car factsheet is particularly helpful.

Unless you really know your big end from your steering column you’ll want to arrange a mobile vehicle inspection , either from the AA ( t0 800 500 333, w aa.co.nz ; members $147; non-members $169) or the Car Inspection Services ( t0 800 500 800 in Auckland and Wellington, w carinspections.co.nz ). The inspection may give you enough ammunition to negotiate a price reduction. Finally, before you close a private sale, call AA LemonCheck ( t0 800 536 662, w aalemoncheck.co.nz) – its staff will fill you in on registration history, possible odometer tampering and any debts on the vehicle ($20 members; $30 non-members).

Before they’re allowed on the road, all vehicles must have a Warrant of Fitness (WOF), which is a test of its mechanical worthiness and safety. WOFs are carried out and issued by specified garages and testing stations and last for a year if the vehicle is less than six years old, or six months if older. Check the expiry date, as the test must have been carried out no more than one month before sale. The vehicle should also have current vehicle registration , which must be renewed before it expires (6 months, starting at $299.90; 12 months $431.06 for petrol-driven, private vehicles – 1300–2600cc): post offices and AA offices are the most convenient for this, though you can also do it online at w nzta.govt.nz .

You transfer ownership with a form (filled in by buyer and seller) at a post office: the licence plates stay with the vehicle. Next you’ll need insurance : Comprehensive (which covers your vehicle and any other damaged vehicles), or Third Party, Fire & Theft (which covers your own vehicle against fire and theft, but only pays out on damage to other vehicles in case of an accident). Shop around as prices vary widely, but expect to pay a minimum of $350 for six months’ Third Party, Fire & Theft cover.

Visitors from most countries can ride in New Zealand with their normal licence, though it (or your international licence) must specify motorbikes. Helmets are compulsory, and you’ll need to be prepared to ride on gravel roads from time to time.

Few people bring their own bike but bike rental is available from the companies running guided bike tours. It isn’t cheap, and for a 650cc machine in summer you can expect to pay $190–280 a day. Bike Adventure New Zealand ( t0 800 498 600, w bikeadventure.co.nz ) offers 600cc enduro machines for $95 per day for short periods, dropping to $55 per day for ten weeks. Alternatively, try the same channels as for “Buying a used vehicle” opposite.

Motorbike tours

The obvious alternative is an organized tour, self-guided or guided, usually incorporating top-of-the-range accommodation, restaurants and bikes.

Adventure New Zealand Motorcycle Tours & Rentals w gotournz.com . Nelson-based company providing upmarket, small-group guided or self-guided tours around the South Island, with itineraries tweaked to suit and a luxury coach in your wake. Rates start at $9000 for a standard 10-day trip on a relatively modest bike.

New Zealand Motorcycle Rentals & Tours w nzbike.com . Another specialist top-end company, offering guided all-inclusive tours staying in quality accommodation, semi-guided tours and bike rental. A fully guided 21-day tour round both islands will set you back about $8300, staying in hotels and riding a modest bike.

Te Waipounamu Motorcycle Hire & Tours w motorcycle-hire.co.nz . These folk do upscale tours round the bottom of the South Island and bike rentals including Beamers at $230/day in the high season.

If you have time, cycling is an excellent way of getting around. Distances aren’t enormous, the weather is generally benign, traffic is light, and the countryside is gorgeous. Most everywhere you go you’ll find hostels and campsites well set up for campers, but also equipped with rooms and cabins for when the weather really sucks.

But there are downsides. New Zealand’s road network is skeletal, so in many places you’ll find yourself riding on main roads or unsealed minor roads. You’ll also experience a fair bit of rain and have to climb quite a lot of hills.

Cycling the South Island is an easier proposition than the North Island . The South Island’s alpine backbone presents virtually the only geographical barrier, while the eastern two-thirds of the island comprise a flat plain. In the North Island you can barely go 10km without encountering significant hills – and you have to contend with a great deal more traffic, including intimidating logging trucks.

New Zealand law requires all cyclists to wear a helmet . Some fitness is important, but distances don’t have to be great and you can take things at your own pace. If you’d rather go with a guided group , For more information, see Multi-day tours.

For more information get the Pedallers’ Paradise guides ( w paradise-press.co.nz ) or Bruce Ringer’s New Zealand by Bike .

Since the vast majority of riding will be on sealed roads with only relatively short sections of gravel, it is perfectly reasonable (and more efficient) to get around New Zealand on a touring bike. But fashion dictates most people use a mountain bike fitted with fat but relatively smooth tyres.

On long trips it’s cheaper to bring your own bike , set up to your liking before you leave home. Most international airlines simply count bikes as a piece of luggage and don’t incur any extra cost as long as you don’t exceed your baggage limit. However, they do require you to use a bike bag or box, or at the very least remove pedals and handlebars and wrap the chain. Some airlines will sell you a cardboard bike box at the airport. Soft bags are probably the most convenient (they’re easy to carry on the bike once you arrive), but if you are flying out from the same city you arrive in you can often store hardshell containers (free or for a small fee) at the backpacker hostel where you spend your first and last nights: call around.

Renting bikes for more than the odd day can be an expensive option, costing anything from $30–55 a day, depending on whether you want a bike with little more than pedals and brakes, a tourer or state-of-the-art mountain bike. Specialist cycle shops do more economical monthly rentals for around $200–250 for a tourer and $300 or more for a full-suspension superbike.

For long-distance cycle touring, it’s generally cheaper to buy a bike . It will cost at least $1500 to get fully kitted out with new equipment, but it’s worth checking hostel notice boards for secondhand bikes (under $500 is a reasonable deal), often accompanied by extras such as wet-weather gear, lights, a helmet and a pump. Some cycle shops offer buy-back deals , guaranteeing to refund about fifty percent of the purchase price at the end of your trip – contact Adventure Cycles, 9 Premier Ave, Western Springs, in Auckland ( t 09 940 2453, w adventure-auckland.co.nz/adventurecycles ). If you’re bringing your own bike, the same folk will let you store the bike box you transported your machine in, help organize an emergency package of spare parts and extra clothing to be forwarded at your request, and give your bike a once-over before you set off, all for around $50.

Transporting bikes

Lethargy, boredom, breakdowns or simply a need to shift your bike between islands mean you’ll use public transport at some point. You can usually get your bike onto a bus (generally $15–20) or train ($15–20/journey), though space is often limited so book well in advance. Crossing Cook Strait, the Interislander and Blue Bridge ferries charge $15–20.

Bikes usually travel free on buses, trains and ferries if packed in a bike bag and treated as ordinary luggage. Air New Zealand will fly your bike free, if it is within your baggage allowance; Jetstar will charge you at its normal excess baggage rate, though that doesn’t cut into your free allowance.

The ferries you’re most likely to use are vehicle-carrying services plying Cook Strait between Wellington on the North Island and Picton on the South Island. Details are given on For more information, see The Dowse Art Museum.

Passenger ferries link Bluff, in the south of the South Island, to Stewart Island, and both vehicle and passenger ferries connect Auckland with the Hauraki Gulf islands, principally Waiheke, Rangitoto and Great Barrier. Information about these short trips is included in the accounts of Invercargill and Auckland. Most visitors spend more boat time on cruises – whale watching, dolphin swimming, sightseeing – or water taxis .

One of the cheapest ways to cover a lot of ground is on a backpacker bus , which combines some of the flexibility of independent travel with the convenience of a tour. You typically purchase a ticket for a fixed route (usually valid for 12 months), and then take it at your own pace. You can either stick with the one bus for the entire journey with nights spent at various towns along the route, or stop off longer in places and hop on a later bus. During peak times some buses may be full, so you’ll need to plan onward travel several days in advance. Most companies operate year-round, though services are reduced in winter.

The emphasis is on experiencing the country rather than travelling from one town to the next, so you’ll be stopping off to bungy jump, hike or somesuch. Being part of a group of forty rowdy backpackers arriving at some idyllic spot isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time and, by using assorted public transport, it is often just as cheap to make your own way around New Zealand. But if you want almost everything organized for you, and a ready-made bunch of like-minded fellow travellers, this sort of travel might appeal.

It can be 5–10 percent cheaper to book before you arrive, as some deals are not available once you step off the plane: check the websites or with your travel agent. You might also save a few dollars by being a YHA, VIP, BBH or ISIC cardholder. Tickets don’t generally cover accommodation, activities (although these are often discounted), side trips, food or travel between the North and South islands.

Operators are listed below. For those interested in multi-day tours and adventure activities check out “Outdoor activities” (see Multi-day tours), where more intimate and specialized excursions are listed.

Flying Kiwi Wilderness Expeditions ( w flyingkiwi.com ). Operator specializing in tours that get off the beaten track and eschew city hostels in favour of camping. Converted buses are equipped with bikes, canoes, windsurfers, kitchen, awning, fridge, beds, tents and hot shower, and everyone mucks in with domestic chores. Trips operate all year and once on board you stick with the same group. Options range from the Northern Express from Wellington to Auckland via Taupo (2 days; $268) to a full NZ tour (27 days; $3740 including food and camping fees).

Haka Tours ( hakatours.com ). Small-group (max 16) guided adventure and snow tours aimed at the slightly more discerning backpacker. Packages range from the seven-day South Island Tour ($1299) to the 24-day "Epic NZ" ($3599).

Kiwi Experience ( w kiwiexperience.com ). With a deserved reputation for attracting high-spirited party animals, Kiwi Experience offers a huge array of passes, from a trip to Cape Reinga starting in Auckland (min 3 days; $199) to the Full Monty (minimum 32 days; $2125).

Stray ( w straytravel.com ). Stray have attempted to take the mantle of ultimate party bus away from Kiwi Experience. Trips include a Round South Island (RON) circuit (minimum 16 days; $940) and a North Island circuit (minimum 9 days; $535).

The Rough Guides to New Zealand and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for New Zealand

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting New Zealand

• Eating and drinking in New Zealand
• Outdoor activities
• Culture and Etiquette in New Zealand
• How to get to New Zealand
• Shopping tips for New Zealand
• Spectator sports
• Travel Tips New Zealand for planning and on the go
• Travelling with children in New Zealand
• Best time to visit New Zealand

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 05.05.2021

Ready to travel and discover New Zealand?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Top Places to Visit
• North Island vs. South Island
• Cities to Visit
• Getting Around New Zealand
• Best Auckland Hotels
• New Zealand's Airports
• Driving in New Zealand
• Visiting New Zealand With Kids
• One Week in New Zealand
• North Island Road Trip
• South Island Road Trip
• Top Things to Do
• Best Beaches
• Skiing in New Zealand
• Top National Parks
• Museums & Art Galleries
• Hot Springs
• Wildlife Reserves
• Must-Try Food in New Zealand
• New Zealand's Wine Regions
• Best Restaurants
• Nightlife in New Zealand
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• Australia & New Zealand
• New Zealand

How to Get Around New Zealand

There are a number of different ways to get around and explore New Zealand. Here are the best travel options, taking into account time frame, budget, and the places you want to see.

If you are driving in New Zealand you will find an excellent network of well maintained and sealed roads. Depending on the terrain, though, some of them can be quite narrow and winding, especially in the North Island. Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga, and Christchurch have motorway systems that make it relatively easy to get in and out of the cities; even rush hour is not too bad compared to many other places in the world.

The driving speed limit is generally 50 km/hr (30 miles per hour) in urban areas, with an upper limit of 100 km/hr (70 miles per hour) on open roads and motorways. And remember to stick to the left; as in Australia or the UK, the driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

A feature of some remote roads (especially around Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula ) is the 'one-way' bridges. These only have a single lane - if a car is approaching you from the opposite direction look out to see which of you has the 'Give Way' sign; the other must cross first.

New Zealand Automobile Association and Visitor Information Centers are excellent places to visit for driving maps and other driving advice.

There are many car rental companies based at the airports and major centers around New Zealand. It is a very good idea to book ahead online to get the best rates.

Campervan (RV)

There are more than 100,000 motorhomes (known locally as campervans) touring the roads of New Zealand each year, making it a very popular way to see the country. There is a huge variety of sizes and configurations to choose from, depending on your needs and budget.

For overnight parking, there are basically two options. Firstly you can book a campground or holiday park. These offer sites for campervans and of course cooking and washing facilities.

If you have a vehicle which is 'self-contained' (legally certified as having its own water and waste containment) there are many places where you can 'freedom camp'. This literally means parking wherever takes your fancy, although of course within the bounds of common sense.

Daily bus services link most of New Zealand's top destinations and this is a very popular transport option amongst tourists. Aside from the comfort and convenience of not having to drive yourself, one of the great advantages of bus travel is the commentary usually provided by the driver; you will find out more about the places you pass through than you would on your own - and you'll almost certainly pick up a funny local story or joke or two as well.

An organized coach tour is another low-stress and informative transport option in New Zealand. You can select regional or national tours of various lengths to suit your time frame. Usually, accommodation is included and there can be various meal and sightseeing activity options.

Train travel is not one of the best ways to get around New Zealand, as the rail network is rather limited. For tourists, there are a few memorable train journeys; the best is the route between Auckland and Wellington and the TranzAlpine which crosses the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth in the South Island.

Air New Zealand and JetStar are the two national carriers which operate flights between the main centers and many smaller destinations. Competition keeps prices very reasonable and it is often possible to pick up bargain fares. The best way to get these is to book online as far ahead as you can.

There are also smaller operators to such specialist destinations as Great Barrier Island and Stewart Island.

This is a great way to see New Zealand! The long straight roads and spectacular scenery are a motorcyclist's dream. There are a number of companies specializing in offering bikes for hire.

For the hardy adventurer, bicycling might be an attractive option for traveling around New Zealand. Be warned; there are lots of steep hills and narrow roads (especially in the North Island) which can make cycling hazardous. Nevertheless, many people do travel this way and you will find several operators around the country where you can rent a bike or join a tour.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

Top things to see and do in New Zealand

New Zealand has plenty of beautiful scenery. Find your way to the best spots, from popular Instagram destinations to off-the-beaten-track treasures.

Must-do experiences

See New Zealand's greatest attractions, from the tip of Cape Reinga to the starry skies of Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Niche attractions

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a lover of luxury, or travelling with your family, you can find memorable experiences in New Zealand. Check out some of the top things to do around the country. 

Find top experiences by region

Share your top new zealand experiences using #nzmustdo.

• Share on Facebook
• Share by email

• Food & Drink
• Milford Sound
• Itineraries
• Work With Me

Where to Find the Best Views in New Zealand

New Zealand is packed with sweeping views and stunning landscapes. There are so many beautiful places in New Zealand where you can feast your eyes on a variety of scenery, from alpine vistas to serene coastal landscapes.

If you want to know where to find the best views in New Zealand, read on as we break down the top 12 scenic viewpoints around the country. We’ve hand-picked these incredible locations based on our own extensive travels around New Zealand over the last twenty years.

We cover options across the North and South Islands. Some are easy to get to and other viewpoints come with a hike. Whether it’s an easy excursion or a harder hike, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful New Zealand scenery. 

» Looking for more help with your New Zealand trip planning? Check out our guides on the best time to visit New Zealand and how to rent a car in NZ as well as these useful travel tips .

Table of Contents

12 Most Beautiful Places in New Zealand with the Best Views

1. cape reinga .

📍 Far North, North Island

Cape Reinga is a breathtaking and historically significant destination located at the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island. Known as Te Rerenga Wairua in Māori culture, it is believed to be the point where spirits depart to the afterlife. 

The rugged cliffs, stunning coastal views, and the iconic lighthouse perched on the edge of the cape create a dramatic landscape where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, offering some of the most beautiful scenery in New Zealand.

For a different viewpoint, take a quick detour to see the cliffs surrounding the area without the crowds. From the parking lot, follow the path to the left where it splits and go down the steps to see the waves crashing against the cliffs.

2. Piha Beach

📍 West Auckland, North Island 

One of my favorite views in all of Auckland, a day trip to Piha Beach is worth putting on the Auckland itinerary . This black sand beach on Auckland’s west coast is a popular surf beach with dramatic landscapes and epic sunsets. 

The best views can be found at the top of Lion Rock, a prominent volcanic formation that rises from the beach, and the Piha Beach Lookout along Piha Road. 

Lion Rock is a short but steep hike with panoramic vistas of the expansive black sand beach, the Tasman Sea, and the rugged coastline dotted with lush vegetation. 

For a different perspective, the lookout points along the surrounding cliffs with stunning views of the beach and the surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for both sunset watching and photography enthusiasts.

3. New Chums Beach Lookout

📍 Coromandel Peninsula, North Island

Not only is New Chums Beach one of New Zealand’s best beaches , there’s a lookout offering spectacular views over the stunning soft white sands, crystal-clear water and lush surroundings. It’s secluded, pristine and a little off the beaten path, which is just how we like it. 

Located on the Coromandel Peninsula, the beach is only accessible by a scenic walk best done two hours either side of low tide. There’s a small stream to cross and a rocky patch around the headland to navigate before joining a dirt track through native bush to the entrance to the beach. 

The walk takes most people around 30-40 minutes. Near the end of the walk, you’ll see a path on your right that leads to the lookout.

It’s a steep climb and requires a bit of agility and scrambling to get to the top, but the elevated views over the crescent shaped beach are worth it. You might even see fish and Manta Rays in the crystal clear water below. 

Pro Tips: Be sure to keep track of time so you can make the journey back before high tide. The Lookout track may not be suitable in wet weather as it can become slippery and dangerous. 

4. Mount Maunganui Summit

📍 Tauranga, North Island

Mount Maunganui, officially known by its Māori name Mauao and affectionately referred to as “The Mount,” is a prominent volcanic cone located at the entrance of Tauranga Harbour in the Bay of Plenty region on the North Island. 

Standing 232 meters (761 feet) tall, it offers fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, the Pacific Ocean, Kaimai Ranges and the vibrant town below from the summit. 

The summit can be reached via a few well-maintained trails which require a good level of fitness and a bit of effort. The 1.2 kilometer Waikorire track is the quickest and most popular. It’s fairly steep and has a lot of stairs, taking most people around 40 minutes to reach the top. Totally worth it for the views.

Afterward, explore the nearby beaches, known for their golden sands and excellent surfing conditions, and you’ll quickly see why Mount Maunganui is a top New Zealand destination for both locals and tourists.

5. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

📍 Tongariro National Park, North Island 

Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s home to three active volcanoes and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is regarded as one of the best day hikes in the world, and one of New Zealand’s top attractions , with spectacular volcanic landscapes including ancient lava flows, craters and emerald lakes. The exposed and rugged terrain is challenging but you’ll be rewarded with some of the most raw and beautiful scenery in New Zealand.

This 19.4 kilometer one-way track takes about 7-9 hours to complete and you’ll need to arrange transportation. We booked this park and ride from Ketetahi to bring us to the start of the track, so that our car was waiting for us at the end of the hike.  

The best views on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be found at the Red Crater and the Emerald Lakes, two of the most iconic and breathtaking points along the trek. As you ascend to the Red Crater, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic vistas of the volcanic landscape, including the vibrant colors of the crater itself. 

The descent towards the Emerald Lakes offers a spectacular sight of these striking turquoise lakes set against the stark volcanic terrain. Additionally, the summit of Mount Tongariro provides an incredible vantage point for expansive views of the Central North Island.

6. Mount Taranaki (Taranaki Maunga)

📍 Egmont National Park, North Island

If you enjoy hiking and photography, this may be the place for you. Mount Taranaki is a dormant stratovolcano located in Egmont National Park on the west coast of the North Island. 

Officially known by its Māori name Taranaki Maunga, it holds great cultural significance to the Māori people of the area.

The extensive network of walking tracks within the park and perfectly symmetrical volcano attract hikers and photographers from all over to capture this iconic view. 

The Pouakai Circuit offers the best perspectives, particularly from the Pouakai Tarns, where the mountain’s symmetrical cone is reflected in the water on calm days. 

The full Pouakai Circuit takes 3 days, but you can visit the Pouakai Tarns as a day hike along the Mangorei Track, around 4-5 hours return, although we recommend booking a night in the Pouakai Hut to make the most of sunrise and sunset. The tarns are a 15 minute walk from the hut. 

Pro Tip: Check the cloud cover before heading off and allow an extra day if you can, the mountain climate can be a little unpredictable.

7. Wellington Cable Car

📍 Wellington, North Island

Take a ride up the Wellington Cable Car for the best panoramic views of Wellington City and its beautiful harbor. 

Starting at the Lambton Quay Terminal in the heart of Wellington CBD, the quaint red cable car climbs up the hillside through the suburb of Kelburn to the summit and lookout point. It’s a short but steep 5-minute ride offering the best effort to reward ratio on this list. 

After soaking up the incredible views at the summit, enjoy easy access to nearby attractions such as the Botanic Gardens and Cable Car Museum or hop on the complimentary shuttle to Zealandia, a beautiful ecosanctuary where you can see native birds and other species. 

8. Roy’s Peak

📍 Wanaka, South Island

Standing 1578 meters above sea level with expansive views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, Roy’s Peak is one of the most photographed views in New Zealand. 

You will need to work for this one though, with a 3 hour uphill slog to get to the iconic lookout point, and another 30 minutes to the true summit. It takes endurance and determination to reach the top, but the views truly are worth it. 

The track starts just outside the charming town of Wanaka. There’s a large parking lot and being a popular track it fills up fast, so we recommend getting there early. The track itself is a wide gravel path and not technically difficult. Bring lots of water and take breaks along the way to admire the views. 

The famous lookout point is well signposted and you’ll likely see others taking photos. If you have the time and a little more energy, continue to the summit for more epic views. 

9. Milford Sound

📍 Fiordland National Park, South Island 

Milford Sound is a stunning fjord located in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. Not only is it one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand, it’s often described as one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Surrounded by towering peaks, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, such as the famous Stirling Falls and Bowen Falls, a visit to Milford Sound is a must-do for any New Zealand itinerary. 

The best way to see Milford Sound is by going on a boat cruise along the whole length of the fjord. It provides opportunities to see the stunning scenery and the best views of Milford Sound up close, as well as the chance to spot wildlife such as dolphins, seals, and if you’re really lucky, penguins.

We really like this Small Boutique Cruise but there’s a range of cruises to choose from.

» Related Read: 10 Best Cruises in Milford Sound

10. Aoraki/Mount Cook

📍 Mount Cook National Park, South Island

Aoraki is the Māori name for Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain peak. It’s located in Mount Cook National Park on New Zealand’s South Island and another top contender for the most beautiful places in New Zealand. 

In addition to the stunning mountain peaks, the park is filled with glacial rivers, lakes and alpine meadows. The jaw dropping scenery can be enjoyed from a variety of viewpoints catering to a range of fitness levels. 

The best views of Aoraki Mount Cook can be found along the Hooker Valley Track and the Sealy Tarns Track.

The Hooker Valley Track is a popular walking trail through some of the most beautiful scenery in New Zealand that leads to the stunning Hooker Lake. On a calm day the mountain’s iconic peak is reflected in the iceberg strewn glacial waters. It’s a fairly easy walk that takes around 3 hours round trip on a well maintained track with little elevation gain and a variety of viewpoints along the way. 

For a more elevated perspective, the Sealy Tarns Track offers spectacular views of the Hooker Valley, Mount Cook and the surrounding peaks. Referred to as the ‘stairway to heaven’, there’s 2,200 steps to climb to reach the tarns but the incredible scenery along the way provides a nice distraction. 

11. Bob’s Peak

📍 Queenstown, South Island

Bob’s Peak is a prominent vantage point located above Queenstown , offering breathtaking panoramic views of the town, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding Southern Alps. 

Access to Bob’s Peak is via a ride up the Queenstown Skyline Gondola , the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, or the Tiki Trail , a short but steep climb through the forest. 

Both start from Brecon Street in central Queenstown. The gondola provides scenic views on the journey up, whereas the Tiki Trail gets you access to Bob’s Peak free of charge.

At the peak, you’ll find the main viewing platform and spectacular views along with thrilling activities such as luge rides and hiking trails such as Ben Lomond . There’s also a cafe and a restaurant where you can dine while admiring the views. 

12. Nugget Point

📍 The Catlins, South Island

Nugget Point is a stunning coastal landmark located in the Catlins region of New Zealand, known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged coastline, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. 

The area features a picturesque lighthouse perched on a rocky outcrop surrounded by blue sea which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape and the famous “nuggets” – small rocky islets that dot the sea. They were named by Captain Cook who thought they looked like pieces of gold. 

There’s a short scenic walking track that leads to the lighthouse, providing opportunities to spot native wildlife such as seals, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. Although you are unable to enter the lighthouse, you can walk around the outside for a good view of the nuggets. 

It’s a popular spot for photographers. Sunrise and sunset can be especially beautiful times to visit in the right conditions. Although, it was a moody evening on our last visit and I found it to be just as beautiful.

Final Thoughts

We hope you are inspired to seek out these beautiful places in New Zealand so you too can experience the best panoramic views in the country. Now all you have to do is pick your favorite spots on the list and enjoy the beautiful scenery. While we consider these to be some of the best views in New Zealand, there’s plenty more out there so make sure the camera is charged!

Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again.

FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more New Zealand travel inspiration and tips!

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Driving from Queenstown to Milford Sound: Everything You Need to Know + 18 Best Places to Stop Along the Way

Queenstown 3 Day Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Queenstown, New Zealand

5 Queenstown Hills With The Best Views

15 Best Hikes In Milford Sound

Heather is a travel enthusiast living in New Zealand with her family. She writes about living in and enjoying travel to New Zealand.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.